White River Marine Group, a leading boat manufacturer and Bass Pro Shops company, announced today that it will expand in Lebanon, bringing a significant investment and new jobs to Missouri. The company’s expansion includes the acquisition of Hobie, a legendary water sports brand, and the move of its production to Lebanon.
“We’re proud to see Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group deepening their commitment to Missouri through this expansion,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “This investment is strengthening the community of Lebanon while contributing to Missouri’s reputation as a prime destination for both business and outdoor adventure.”
The return of Hobie production to the U.S. marks an exciting new chapter for White River Marine Group. Rooted in the Ozarks region, known for its rich outdoor heritage and skilled manufacturing workforce, this move ensures Hobie products will continue to embody quality, innovation, and a true passion for life on the water.
“Uniting with Hobie is a very proud day in our company’s history,” said Johnny Morris, Founder and Lead Outfitter, and Bryan Niketh, President Manufacturing at White River Marine Group. “We extend Hobie Dealers a warm welcome to our White River Family. We are deeply committed to Hobie and supporting its dealer network as we embark on a very bright future together!”
White River Marine Group’s extensive dealer network has long been a cornerstone of its success, built on decades of strong relationships and unwavering support. Dealers have been trusted partners since the company’s earliest days, helping deliver the highest-quality boats and customer service to communities across the country and around the world. With a shared commitment to excellence, White River Marine Group continues to invest in its dealers, providing tools, resources and unmatched marketing support they need to grow their businesses and ensure customers create happy on-the-water experiences for generations to come.
“DED is excited to support White River Marine Group as they help Missourians prosper in Lebanon,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “This project was made possible by our state’s economic advantages and collaboration with our incredible partners.”
For this expansion, White River Marine Group will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.
What others are saying
“White River Marine Group has continued to spur economic growth in our community for nearly five decades,” said Lebanon Mayor Jared Carr. “This additional expansion in Lebanon will create new opportunities for our amazing workforce for many more years to come. We are blessed by and thankful for White River Marine’s commitment to the City of Lebanon, Laclede County and the State of Missouri and we’re excited to see the outcomes this expansion will deliver in the very near future.”
“We are proud that Missouri is home to the headquarters of global powerhouse Bass Pro Shops and industry leader White River Marine Group,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “Their decision to reshore jobs to our state is a testament to Missouri’s skilled workforce and pro-business environment. We are looking forward to adding Hobie watercraft to the long list of innovative products and storied brands that are made in Missouri.”
About Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops, North America’s premier outdoor and conservation company, was founded in 1972 when avid young angler Johnny Morris started selling tackle out of his father’s liquor store in Springfield, Missouri. That was the company’s sole location for the first 13 years, and it has since grown to nearly 200 retail locations throughout North America. Today the company provides customers with unmatched offerings spanning premier destination retail, outdoor equipment manufacturing, world-class resort destinations and more.
In 2017 Bass Pro Shops united with Cabela’s to create a “best-of-the-best” experience with superior products, dynamic locations and outstanding customer service. Bass Pro Shops also operates White River Marine Group, offering an unsurpassed collection of industry-leading boat brands, and Big Cedar Lodge, America’s Premier Wilderness Resort. Under the visionary conservation leadership of Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops is a national leader in protecting habitat and introducing families to the outdoors and has been named by Newsweek as “America’s Best Outdoor Retailer” for four consecutive years and “America’s Most Trusted Retailer for Outdoor Gear.”
About the Missouri Department of Economic Development
The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.
For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.
About the Missouri Works Program
As the state’s number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.