Clarios to invest $400M, create over 100 jobs in St. Joseph
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Clarios, a global and local manufacturer of advanced low-voltage batteries, announced plans to invest $400 million and create up to 123 full-time jobs in St. Joseph.
The plan is contingent on the project securing all the necessary permits on time.
The investment is a small part of a $600 billion plan to modernize Clarios' U.S. facilities and expand its production capacity.
"This is a major win for St. Joseph and our hardworking residents,” said Natalie Hawn, president and CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. “The addition of up to 123 new jobs through Clarios means more opportunities for families, stronger economic stability, and continued momentum for our region. St. Joseph was competing with at least two other Clarios facilities in the United States for this tremendous investment. I’m very thankful for the Clarios leadership team’s belief in the St. Joseph location and community and grateful for the support of our many partners who helped make this happen here.”
The expansion will play a significant role in meeting projected increases in battery demand nationwide by enabling Clarios to expand its absorbent glass mat (AGM) battery production capacity. The manufacturing push will also mitigate tariff exposure and logistics challenges, improving customer service by increasing onshore manufacturing.
“We’re proud of our investments in St. Joseph and what it means to our workers and this community, and for the future we’re building together,” said Marc Andraca, president, Clarios US-Canada Region. "We appreciate the leaders in St. Joseph and the State of Missouri for working with us to bring more jobs to the area. This is exactly the kind of collaboration that fuels growth for decades to come and we look forward to continuing this strong partnership.”
As a former employee of the company, St. Joseph Mayor Larry Miller was proud of the announcement.
"This is a huge win for St. Joseph. The Clarios expansion, bringing over 100 jobs and more than $300 million in investment, shows what we have always known: Our workforce is strong because of the great people behind it, our infrastructure is ready and our future is bright,” Miller said.
"Clarios’ continued investment in St. Joseph is a prime example of what’s possible when a company chooses to grow where it’s already planted roots,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “This expansion reinforces Missouri’s critical role in the future of automotive innovation and ensures nearly 1,100 Missourians can continue building their careers right here at home.”
The St. Joseph Chamber and Economic Development Partnership coordinated the project, along with resources from the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Buchanan County, City of St. Joseph, Evergy and St. Joseph School District.
"This project represents meaningful progress for Buchanan County and the families who live and work here,” Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Scott Nelson said. "I’m proud to welcome this investment and the lasting impact it will bring for generations to come.”
"By providing targeted incentives and working closely with our Economic Development team, we were able to help foster a competitive environment that keeps this important investment right here in our community, " said Carrie Koelzer, Evergy customer solutions manager. "We value our partnership with Clarios and look forward to their continued success in St. Joseph.”
Clarios said the 123 job positions will be divided between its two St. Joseph locations, on Stockyards Expressway and Pear Street, based on the plant's specific operational and staffing needs.
The company said final headcounts and job allocations will be determined as expansion plans progress.
"What makes St. Joe a great place to work is the value we place on our people and their workplace experience," said Nathan Simons, Clarios' senior communications manager via email. "That same care guides the way we create new roles, ensuring every position we add is purposeful, sustainable and one that employees can take pride in."
St. Joseph's two Clarios buildings, which carry over 960 employees combined, will have their own operational needs and cost considerations when it comes to the allocations of the $400 million.
