KEY QUOTE: “For Gov. Kelly, the impact of the Panasonic project is huge and ongoing. “It already has changed Kansas’s perception of itself – the fact that we were able to attract a business like Panasonic,” Kelly said. “People out in Hays are fully aware this is happening. They have a sense of pride and anticipate what else is to come,” the governor said.

Panasonic Plant Could ‘Revolutionize Region’s Economy’
Martin Rosenberg, Flatland KC
Sept. 19, 2024

- Laura Kelly of Kansas believes the opening of the $4 billion electric car battery manufacturing plant in DeSoto early next year will revolutionize the region’s economy, lifestyle and self-image.
- “The overall impact of this is just truly transformational,” Kelly said of the massive 4.7 million square foot Panasonic plant nearing completion. “The northeast quadrant of our state will look very different and feel very different,” the governor said.
- The good news is undeniable. Allan Swan, president of Panasonic Energy of North America, in June said the DeSoto plant, “will be the largest battery manufacturing plant in the world.”
- For Kelly, Panasonic’s arrival is the capstone of [nearly] $20 billion in new capital investment in the state made on her watch as governor coming from 1,300 economic development wins.
- The jobs Panasonic is creating will lead to further significant job growth. “We expect suppliers to set up shop. We expect another 4,000 jobs,” Kelly said.