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Downtown Owensboro Inc. Announces 2026 Officers

Downtown Owensboro Inc. Announces 2026 Officers

OWENSBORO, KY (February 13, 2026) – Downtown Owensboro Inc. has announced its officers for 2026, continuing the organization’s momentum as a driving force behind the growth in Downtown Owensboro.

Elected officers for 2026 include:

  • President: Derek Stone, Mellow Mushroom
  • Past President: Amy Gilmore, Gramp’s
  • Secretary: Isabell Higgins, Willow & Pine / Magnolia Mercantile
  • Treasurer: Tamarra Brasher, Brasher’s Lil Nashville

Downtown Owensboro Inc. is a dedicated nonprofit organization committed to enhancing the economic, cultural, and social vitality of Downtown Owensboro. The organization works to create exceptional experiences, stimulate economic development, and promote the well-being of businesses, residents, and visitors alike.

In recent years, DOI has experienced renewed energy and growth, hosting successful events such as the Small Biz Crawl, the Bluegrass in the Boro live music series, Fam Jam, and other community-focused initiatives that highlight downtown as a vibrant destination and support the small businesses within it.

“As business owners, we see firsthand the impact a strong downtown has on our entire community,” said Derek Stone, incoming President of Downtown Owensboro Inc. “Downtown Owensboro is gaining momentum, and our board is focused on building on that progress by supporting small businesses, creating meaningful experiences, and ensuring downtown remains a place people want to gather, invest, and grow.”

Longtime Downtown Owensboro Inc. member Tamarra Brasher said the organization’s continued revitalization is a testament to the commitment of local business leaders.

“Downtown Owensboro has come so far in the past few years,” Brasher said. “It’s exciting to be part of a group that is truly invested in its success. From signature events to everyday collaboration among businesses, we’re working together to keep downtown strong and welcoming.”

Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, emphasized the importance of partnership between Downtown Owensboro Inc. and the broader economic development strategy for the region.

“A thriving downtown is central to Greater Owensboro’s overall economic strength,” Bacon said. “Downtown Owensboro Inc. plays a critical role in fostering small business growth and creating the kind of energy that attracts investment. We’re proud to partner with the organization as we continue supporting downtown development and providing resources that help businesses succeed.”

For more information about Downtown Owensboro Inc. and upcoming events, follow Downtown Owensboro Inc. on social media.

Media Contact
Derek Stone, President
270-792-7564

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About Downtown Owensboro Inc.
Downtown Owensboro Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the growth, vitality, and visibility of downtown Owensboro. Through events, partnerships, and strategic initiatives, the organization works to cultivate a thriving business community and vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.

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Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton bringing Starbucks, other new amenities to downtown Owensboro

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton bringing new amenities to downtown Owensboro

OWENSBORO, KY (Feb. 12, 2026) – BryantCorp, owner, developer, and manager of the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Downtown Owensboro/Waterfront, announced a major redevelopment project on its first and second floors that includes a new first-floor Starbucks in the hotel and a new second-floor fitness center overlooking the Ohio river.  The project reinforces BryantCorp’s commitment to drawing the community to downtown Owensboro and the riverfront district.

The new full-service Starbucks will replace the former Out of the Blue Bourbon Shop and will be open to both hotel guests and the general public.  The new fitness center will offer guests sweeping views of the Ohio river and riverwalk area.  Starbucks will feature its full menu of handcrafted beverages and food offerings, along with mobile ordering, providing added convenience for downtown workers, residents, and visitors.

“A thriving downtown Owensboro requires continued reinvestment, and we need to play our part in that process just like the City and other private developers are doing every day,” shared hotel General Manager Sharon NeSmith. “Starbucks’ consistently high-quality service speaks for itself and aligns with the guest service we strive to deliver at the Hampton Inn & Suites.”

NeSmith anticipates the new fitness center to be completed this spring with new coffee shop opening to follow over the summer, along with the hiring and training of 10-15 new team members.  Positions will include baristas and supervisors, supporting continued growth of downtown Owensboro’s hospitality workforce.

“Downtown Owensboro continues to gain strength through steady, intentional reinvestment,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “Projects like this reflect the confidence private developers have in our downtown and its long-term momentum. Recognizable brands often serve as signals of market confidence, and continued local investment from companies like BryantCorp demonstrates a long-term commitment to downtown that benefits residents, workers, visitors, and neighboring businesses alike.”

BryantCorp built the Hampton Inn & Suites in downtown Owensboro as part of the broader redevelopment of the entire Ohio River waterfront in 2014.  The company also owns and operates the fully-renovated Hampton Inn Owensboro South on Salem Drive, managed by Chris Green.  The Starbucks/Fitness Center project is part of BryantCorp’s ongoing commitment to build and maintain community amenities that support tourism, conventions, and community activity.

Additional details, including an official opening date and hours of operation, will be announced closer to completion.

Media Contact
Dan Tracey
dtracey@bryantcorp.com

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About BryantCorp
BryantCorp is a family owned and operated real estate company specializing in community-enhancing hospitality projects.   The company is committed to projects that drive economic growth and long-term community development throughout Kentucky, North Carolina and throughout the southeast.

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Owensboro Selected as Flagship Location for Maui’s Indoor Theme Park

Owensboro, Ky. – One of Owensboro’s most anticipated development projects is taking an exciting next step. The indoor entertainment destination previously announced as Malibu Jack’s will now operate as Maui’s Indoor Theme Park, a reimagined, resort-style indoor theme park with Owensboro selected as the flagship location for the brand’s evolution.

The project represents an $18.3 million private investment and is expected to create 125 new jobs, adding a major family-friendly destination to the region and further strengthening Owensboro’s tourism and entertainment offerings.

“Tourism is often economic development’s front porch,” said Claude Bacon, President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “It is one of the first ways people experience a community. Projects like Maui’s showcase the energy behind Owensboro and help shape how visitors and future investors see our city.”

The project is being developed locally by TS Entertainment, whose partnership has played a key role in bringing this large-scale attraction to the community. Phase One will include many of the attractions originally planned, with future phases introducing new rides, dining options, and expanded experiences designed to grow over time and encourage repeat visits.

Support from the Kentucky Cabinet for Tourism, Arts & Heritage has helped position Owensboro to compete for high-impact tourism projects like this, aligning with the broader vision of the New Kentucky Home initiative.

Additional announcements regarding opening timelines and future expansion phases are expected in the coming weeks.

GOEDC, SBDC, Chamber, and Fastek Launch “Plugged In: A Tech Series for Small Businesses”

Small business owners are under constant pressure to keep up with technology, protect their data, and run more efficient operations, often without internal IT support. To help address those challenges, the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), in partnership with the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, and Fastek, has launched Plugged In: A Tech Series for Small Businesses, a new four-part professional development series.

The series is ideal for owners, managers, and key decision-makers at small and mid-sized businesses who want practical guidance, not technical jargon. Planned topics include small-business technology fundamentals, cybersecurity, everyday tools to improve productivity, and practical ways to use artificial intelligence to enhance the customer experience. The series is delivered in a practical, discussion-driven lunch-and-learn format designed specifically for small and mid-sized businesses.

The series will take place at the Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront and will be held on the following dates:

  • Tuesday, January 27
  • Tuesday, February 24
  • Tuesday, March 17
  • Tuesday, April 21

Each session will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and will include lunch.

“Most small businesses know technology matters, but they don’t always know where to focus or who to trust,” said Chris Murphy, Founder and CEO at Fastek. “Plugged In is about cutting through the noise and giving business owners practical guidance they can actually use—how to protect their data, work more efficiently, and make smarter technology decisions without needing to be an IT expert.”

Designed specifically for small and mid-sized businesses, Plugged In will be delivered in a casual lunch-and-learn format. Each 2-hour session will include practical instruction, interactive Q&A, and course materials focused on strengthening operations, protecting digital assets, and improving efficiency. Session topics will be finalized based on a pre-event survey sent to registrants, ensuring the content reflects the real needs of participating businesses.

“We’re excited to partner with the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation to offer this training to our business community,” said Dave Kirk, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. “As an added benefit, our Chamber members will get a price break on this learning opportunity.  We look forward to continuing to grow our collaboration with the EDC on future endeavors.”

A key incentive of the series is its completion benefit. Businesses that attend all four sessions will receive a complimentary cybersecurity vulnerability assessment from Fastek, a service valued at $950. Participants who complete the full series will also earn a certificate of completion recognizing their commitment to strengthening their technology knowledge and operations. The program will wrap up with a brief, graduation-style conclusion celebrating participating businesses and the progress they’ve made throughout the series.

“Small business owners juggle a lot of responsibilities, and technology can feel like unfamiliar territory,” said Jody Hulsey, Director of the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro. “The Plugged In series offers a practical approach to IT that will help business owners protect what they’ve built, save time, and make the most of the tools that support their growth.”

Registration for the full four-part series is $100 per person, with Chamber members receiving a $25 discount. Additional discounts are available for businesses registering more than one employee. Attendance is limited to the first 30 participants.

“Strong businesses need strong tech,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of GOEDC. “Plugged In will help our local businesses understand and use technology in ways that make them more efficient, more secure, and better positioned for growth in Greater Owensboro.”

Registration is now open, and space is limited. You can register online using the link below or by calling the Chamber at 270-926-1860.

Link to register: https://business.chamber.owensboro.com/events/details/plugged-in-small-business-tech-series-presented-by-fastek-3872

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About the Kentucky Small Business Development Center
The Kentucky Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Owensboro provides no-cost consulting, training, and technical assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the region. As part of a statewide network, the SBDC helps businesses start, grow, and succeed by offering expertise in areas such as business planning, financial management, marketing, and operations. The Owensboro SBDC is committed to strengthening the local economy by supporting sustainable small business growth.

About the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce works to support, connect, and advocate for businesses across Greater Owensboro. Through networking opportunities, professional development, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships, the Chamber helps create a strong business climate and a thriving local economy. Serving businesses of all sizes and industries, the Chamber plays a key role in advancing workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and regional growth.

About Fastek
Fastek is a technology solutions provider based in Owensboro, Kentucky, specializing in managed IT services, cybersecurity, and strategic technology support for businesses. Founded with a focus on proactive service and long-term partnerships, Fastek helps organizations protect their digital assets, improve efficiency, and confidently navigate an increasingly complex technology landscape. Fastek works with businesses across multiple industries to deliver scalable, secure, and practical IT solutions.

Media Contacts
GOEDC – Summer Aldridge, 270-926-4339
SBDC – Jody Hulsey, 270-574-9990
GO Chamber – Dave Kirk, 270-926-1860
Fastek – Brandon Cox, 270- 240-2840

GOEDC President & CEO Claude Bacon Elected Chair of Kentucky Travel Industry Association

Claude Bacon Elected Chair of Kentucky Travel Industry Association
GOEDC President & CEO brings Owensboro leadership to statewide stage

OWENSBORO, KY (November 7, 2025) – Tourism isn’t just fun and games; it’s serious economic development, and few understand that better than Claude Bacon, President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) and current board chair of Visit Owensboro. Bacon has been elected to serve as the 2026 chair of the Kentucky Travel Industry Association (KTIA), bringing his Owensboro-area leadership and vision to the statewide stage. His election was officially recognized during the 2025 KTIA Annual Conference, held November 5–7 in Louisville.

Bacon has served on the KTIA board since 2020 and has progressed through leadership roles as Secretary in 2023, Treasurer in 2024, and Chair-elect in 2025. With years of experience promoting regional growth, he will now help guide Kentucky’s tourism sector as a driver of jobs, investment, and community vibrancy.

“Tourism plays a critical role in economic growth, and I look forward to working with colleagues across Kentucky to leverage our assets, create more meaningful visitor experiences, and expand opportunities for every region of the state,” Bacon said.

Jeff Noel, Secretary of Economic Development, said that Secretary Lindy Casebier of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet provides great leadership and that the proof of his and Governor Beshear’s work is evident in the consecutive years of annual growth the state has seen in tourism. “Tourism enhances placemaking and creates venues that make attracting and retaining talent easier for all employers, all while generating jobs and economic activity,” Noel said. “Tourism and economic development are interdependent, and Claude is a tremendous leader who knows how both areas must work seamlessly together.”

“Claude’s energy, relationship building skills and passion for Kentucky will serve the Commonwealth and KTIA well in the coming year,” shared Secretary Lindy Casebier of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet.

Hank Phillips, KTIA President and CEO, said Bacon’s professional background makes him perfectly suited for the role. “Claude’s experience in the hotel industry, his involvement with Visit Owensboro, and his service as local economic development president and CEO make him an ideal choice as KTIA’s 2026 board chairman,” Phillips said. “Beyond that, his insightful leadership skills will serve the association extremely well next year.”

Locally, the announcement was welcomed by Mark Calitri, President and CEO of Visit Owensboro. “Having Claude at the helm of KTIA means Owensboro’s voice is front and center in state tourism conversations,” Calitri said. “Our region has worked hard to elevate visitor experiences, create quality jobs, and foster destination growth, and now we have an advocate for those efforts across Kentucky.”

Before joining GOEDC, Bacon spent 16 years in the private sector with LinGate Hospitality, a hotel development, investment, and management company that franchises with Marriott, Hilton, and IHG. The company’s portfolio includes hotels in multiple states, including the Holiday Inn in downtown Owensboro.

In his leadership roles at GOEDC and Visit Owensboro, Bacon has emphasized that tourism isn’t separate from economic development; it is economic development. From lodging-tax revenue and hotel-occupancy gains to event attraction and visitor spending, the ripple effects of tourism fuel local business growth, support jobs, and enhance quality of life. Under Bacon’s leadership, KTIA and its statewide partners are poised to strengthen Kentucky’s position as a premier destination and deepen tourism’s role as a strategic pillar of the Commonwealth’s economy.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About KTIA
Founded in 1980, the Kentucky Travel Industry Association (KTIA) is the Commonwealth’s only statewide organization representing the full spectrum of the travel and tourism industry. With more than 900 member organizations, including attractions, hotels, restaurants, marinas, tourism commissions, and supplier partners, KTIA serves as a unified voice for tourism’s vital role in Kentucky’s economy.

KTIA’s work is centered around four core pillars: advocacy, education, information, and business and professional development. The association is dedicated to advancing awareness of how visitor spending, lodging, events, and travel experiences drive job creation, community investment, and statewide economic growth.

GOEDC and SBDC to Host Fearless Posting with Local Influencer Kate Higdon Oct. 30

Join us for Fearless Posting, a hands-on social media workshop designed to help small business owners turn posts into profits!

OWENSBORO, KY (October 9, 2025) – The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) and the Kentucky Small Business Development Center (SBDC) are partnering to host Fearless Posting: From Posts to Profits on Wednesday, October 30, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The Party Space Place in Owensboro.

Fearless Posting: From Posts to Profits, a social media training for small business owners, will help entrepreneurs learn to create purposeful, personality-driven content that connects with customers and grows their business. The Halloween-week workshop will show that social media doesn’t have to be scary and will give attendees the tools to post with confidence and strategy.

Led by local influencer, photographer, and social media strategist Kate Higdon, the session will simplify the process of turning followers into customers through intentional content. Attendees will also receive a free “Define Your Avatar” guide to help identify and speak directly to their ideal customer, and one lucky participant will win a complimentary social media audit valued at $150.

“Social media isn’t about posting more, it’s about posting with purpose,” said Kate Higdon, owner of Captured Moments Photography. “When you know who you’re talking to and what they need, every post becomes a bridge that builds trust, connection, and eventually, customers.”

“Events like this are all about growth, helping small business owners learn practical strategies that translate into visibility, engagement, and sales,” said Jamie Johnson, GOEDC Vice President of Entrepreneurship, Workforce Development, and Small Business. “And there’s no better person to learn from than Kate. She’s a local entrepreneur who’s built a following of more than a million and turned authenticity into impact.”

“Kate brings a sense of relatability that makes learning fun and approachable,” said Jody Hulsey with the Kentucky Small Business Development Center. “She understands the challenges of small business owners because she’s lived them, and she’s proof that when you combine strategy with personality, success follows.”

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased here: https://www.thepartyspaceplace.com/event-details-registration/fearless-posting-from-posts-to-profits-with-kate-higdon  

Space is limited, and lunch is included.

This workshop is part of GOEDC’s ongoing series supporting entrepreneurship and small business growth in the Greater Owensboro region.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About the Kentucky Small Business Development Center

The Kentucky Small Business Development Center has been assisting the Commonwealth’s small business community for over 40 years. With centers statewide and experienced business coaches, the Kentucky SBDC provides no-cost, confidential business coaching services to existing and start-up businesses.

Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested in advance.

Balance Your Business: Bookkeeping Basics for Small Business Owners Oct. 22

GOEDC and SBDC to Host Balance Your Business: Bookkeeping Basics for Small Business Owners

OWENSBORO, KY (October 5, 2025) – The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) and the Kentucky Small Business Development Center are partnering to host Balance Your Business: Bookkeeping Basics for Small Business Owners on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Brescia University’s Field Center, Room 112.

This hands-on training, led by Amber Ebelhar of Bold Venture Bookkeeping, is designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners build confidence in managing their finances. Participants can choose from two separate sessions (each tailored to where they are in their bookkeeping journey) or attend both for a more complete learning experience. Each session is $15 per person, and a networking lunch from 12:00 to 12:30 p.m. is included for attendees of either or both sessions.

Bookkeeping Basics: From Shoebox to Strategy (10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
Ideal for beginners or those looking to get organized, this session introduces the basics of bookkeeping, why accurate records are critical, and how business owners can move from simply tracking receipts to achieving true financial clarity.

“Accurate bookkeeping is one of the most important, and often overlooked, foundations of a successful small business,” said Amber Ebelhar of Bold Venture Bookkeeping. “When owners understand their numbers and have sound processes in place, they make better decisions, reduce stress, and build businesses that can scale.”

Networking Lunch (12:00 – 12:30 p.m.)
All participants, regardless of session choice, are invited to enjoy a boxed lunch and connect with other local business owners.

Bookkeeping Next Level: Power Up Your Books (12:30 – 2:00 p.m.)
Designed for business owners who already have some bookkeeping experience or are using (or considering) QuickBooks Online, this session provides hands-on guidance for categorizing transactions, reconciling accounts, and reading reports that support smarter decisions.

“Bookkeeping isn’t just about tax time; it’s about truly understanding your business,” said Jody Hulsey with the Kentucky Small Business Development Center. “This training will help owners gain the clarity they need to make smarter financial decisions all year long.”

Organizers say the workshop is designed to remove the intimidation factor. “Small business owners wear so many hats, and bookkeeping is one of those areas that can feel overwhelming or easy to push aside,” said Jamie Johnson, GOEDC Vice President of Entrepreneurship, Workforce Development, and Small Business. “This training is about giving them the confidence and tools to take control of their finances, so they can focus on growth, not just getting by.”

The event is part of GOEDC’s ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses with practical tools that help businesses start, grow, and thrive in Owensboro.

Registration is now open, and space is limited.

Business owners can choose the best session (or both!) for them and use the link below to register: 

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About the Kentucky Small Business Development Center

The Kentucky Small Business Development Center has been assisting the Commonwealth’s small business community for over 40 years. With centers statewide and experienced business coaches, the Kentucky SBDC provides no-cost, confidential business coaching services to existing and start-up businesses.

Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested in advance.

Community Collaboration Fuels New Future for Green River Community Food Warehouse

OWENSBORO, KY (October 3, 2025) – Green River Community Food Warehouse (GRCFW) is excited to announce we have reached an agreement in principle to acquire the Clark Distributing Company property located at 1222 E 4th Street, Owensboro, KY 42303.

This site will be the future location of the GRCFW centralized, temperature-controlled warehouse that will be capable of collecting and distributing large quantities of donated food, and make them available, free of charge, to local food pantries and soup kitchens. This facility will also support pantries and kitchens by storing food they secure independently, reducing waste and strengthening the entire food system.

Every day in Owensboro and Daviess County, more than 15,000 of our neighbors – including single moms, children, seniors, and working families – struggle with food insecurity. For them, the question is not ‘what’s for dinner’, but ‘whether there be dinner at all’.

Truckloads of donated food – especially hard-to-get proteins, fruits & vegetables – are available every week across our region. But today, most of it bypasses our community because we lack the ability to store large quantities on short notice.

“The Clark family is selling the property to GRCFW at below market price,” said Steve Innes, Executive Director of GRCFW. “This represents a large contribution to make this project a reality. We want to thank the Clark family for their generosity and commitment that will improve life in our community. This takes us one step closer to feeding thousands of more people in Owensboro and Daviess County who are food insecure.”

“At its core, economic development is about strengthening communities, and this partnership is a great example of what that looks like in practice,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “GOEDC is proud to play a small role in helping Clark Distributing and Green River Community Food Warehouse come together on a project that will have such a meaningful impact. When businesses and nonprofits collaborate to meet community needs, the result is a stronger Owensboro for everyone.”

The Clark Distribution Company will continue to be an important part of our community, but they have outgrown the current site. They have plans to open a new facility in our area to accommodate the growth of their business.

Terms of the transaction and timing for transition are not being disclosed at this time.

GRCFW Media Contact

Steve Innes

Phone: 551-579-9565

Email: innes.steve@gmail.com

About Green River Community Food Warehouse (GRCFW)
EIN: 99-1370130

The Green River Community Food Warehouse is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing hunger across Owensboro and Daviess County. By collecting, storing, and distributing donated food, GRCFW supports a network of local food pantries and soup kitchens that serve thousands of individuals and families each year. Its mission is to build a stronger, more resilient local food system and ensure that no neighbor goes hungry. Learn more at www.grcfw.org   

About Clark Distributing Company (CC Distributing)

Founded in 1954, Clark Distributing Company is a family-owned beverage distributor serving Owensboro and surrounding communities. Known for its commitment to customer service and community engagement, the company continues to grow and invest locally while supporting projects that strengthen the region’s quality of life.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

GOEDC Celebrates National Manufacturing Month 2025

OWENSBORO, KY (Sept. 30, 2025) – The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is proud to celebrate National Manufacturing Month 2025 by highlighting the people, companies, and impact of one of the strongest sectors in our regional economy. Throughout October, GOEDC will share social media programming that includes industry facts, behind the scenes photos, and a special four-part video series spotlighting local manufacturers.

Manufacturing plays a central role in Greater Owensboro’s economy, employing more than 7,400 people and representing 14.8 percent of the total workforce, which is well above the national average of 7.8 percent. With an average annual wage of $69,148, manufacturing careers in Daviess County provide strong incomes that support families and fuel local growth.

The impact extends far beyond jobs. In 2024, manufacturing generated $1.6 billion in GDP, accounting for nearly 24 percent of the county’s total economic output. Productivity in Owensboro’s manufacturing sector is exceptional, with output per worker at $1.62 million, which is more than double the national average.

Daviess County is home to a wide range of manufacturers that produce goods recognized across the nation. Every jar of Ragu pasta sauce, countless paper products, automotive components, and distilled spirits have ties to Owensboro. From food and beverage to automotive and advanced materials, these industries drive local prosperity and connect our community to households and markets across the world.

“Manufacturing is part of Greater Owensboro’s DNA,” said Claude Bacon, President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “From global operations like Swedish Match, whose Owensboro facility is expanding to meet worldwide demand for new products, to local success stories like OMICO, which manufactures plastic parts used in cars, appliances, toys, and more, our community’s manufacturing sector is diverse, resilient, and deeply tied to both global value chains and everyday life.”

In addition to GOEDC’s social media campaign, proclamations recognizing October as National Manufacturing Month will be presented by both the City of Owensboro and the Daviess County Fiscal Court, underscoring the vital role manufacturing plays in our region’s economy and community.

This year’s video series will feature:

  • Kimberly Clark for their products and commitment to workforce development.
  • Kentron for advanced manufacturing and local innovation.
  • Green River Distillery for blending Kentucky’s heritage with modern technology.
  • Metalsa for being a global automotive manufacturer with a strong local footprint.

GOEDC encourages the community to follow along on social media throughout October to celebrate the companies, workers, and industries shaping Owensboro’s future.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

GOEDC Media Contact: Summer Aldridge at saldridge@owensboro.com | 270-926-4339

Kroger breaks ground on Marketplace store

A groundbreaking ceremony was held Wednesday morning at the intersection of Hayden Road and Fairview Drive in Gateway Commons for a 100,000-square-foot Kroger Marketplace expected to be completed in the fall or winter of next year.

The $35 million project is expected to create more than 200 jobs.

“You see the smaller formats that are in the standard grocery stores, so our Marketplace just expands on that,” said Jessica Sharp, Kroger’s Head of Communications and Public Affairs for the Louisville division. “It’s an expanded variety in the fresh departments that you know about, but that also includes our home goods side. That will include an increase in the amount of home goods, pet supplies — you see clothing at those as well.”

Sharp said local economic development led to the decision to add a fourth Kroger in Daviess County.

“We continue to evaluate the economic development and growth of communities as we think about investments like this,” she said. “As we continue to see population growth, that’s usually the determining factor.

“You’re going to see a lot of development in this area, a lot of economic growth. I think you’re going to see more companies move in. It’s a growth phase for Kroger right now.”

The new Kroger Marketplace will offer a variety of fresh food and household items and will include a fuel center, drive-thru pharmacy, wine and spirits shop, Murray’s Cheese, sushi bar, home goods, and all of Kroger’s signature fresh departments.

Larry Warren, Kroger’s District 3 Manager, said the facility will also include a Starbucks.

“It will also have the staples that our customers have come to grow and love and purchase from us,” Warren said, noting the company’s long history in Owensboro. “This community has been great to Kroger for decades.”

Anthea Jones, Kroger’s Vice President of Merchandising, said the company’s goal is to make life easier for Owensboro families.

“This Marketplace truly represents the best of Kroger — a one-stop shopping experience,” Jones said. “Customers will find fresh local food alongside home essentials, all with the quality products and the value that you expect.”

Sharp said the project marks an exciting time for the company.

“We’re always very excited when we get to open up stores,” she said. “It hasn’t been for quite a while now, so being able to open up new stores, have that new expanded variety for a community — it’s just really exciting for us.

“We’re in the grocery business because we love people.”

Owensboro Mayor Pro Tem Bob Glenn called the groundbreaking “an exciting day” for the city, county, and region.

“We have another leg in our retail stool, another great opportunity to serve not just Owensboro but a number of counties around here,” Glenn said. “Kroger is such a great corporate partner. They are an amazing statewide and regionwide corporate supporter; they’re a good corporate citizen. They supply their employees with good jobs. I am a big supporter of unions, and I’m thrilled that they have a union presence at all of their stores. Kroger gives good value for the money.

“We are thrilled that this beautiful new facility will grace what is already a greatly expanding area. We’ll continue to grow Owensboro and move it forward to be the shining city on the river that it is and always will be. We want to thank Kroger for its investment in our community.”

Written by Scott Hagerman, Messenger-Inquirer. Republished with credit.