2017 Economic Impact Awards 30+ Years in Operation Winner: Bass Pro Shops

Out of his many accomplishments, Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris may be most proud that his national company’s headquarters is still located in his hometown of Springfield.
 
“As we have expanded across North America, we remain deeply rooted in the Ozarks and are deeply committed to the region through continued economic growth, new nature-based experiences and attractions, investing in community initiatives and playing a lead role in conserving the abundant natural resources found here,” Bass Pro Communications Director Jack Wlezien says. “We are very proud to play a role in establishing the region as a must-see destination for everyone who loves the outdoors.”

Bass Pro Shops was once a tiny space in the back of Morris’ father’s Brown Derby Liquor store. Now, the Outdoor World store in Springfield is among the top tourist destinations in Missouri.

“From tourism to sales taxes and local jobs, Bass Pro Shops is a significant economic driver in the Ozarks,” Wlezien says.

The Morris-owned resort, Big Cedar Lodge on Table Rock Lake, opened in 1987 and attracts 1.4 million guests annually and growing, Wlezien says. And when the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium makes its return, pegged for later this year, Wlezien says it will be a world-class experience that every towny can celebrate and take pride in.

In addition, those resorts and attractions provide jobs for 6,000 area residents – 2,300 of which were created in the last three years. In 2015, Forbes Magazine named Bass Pro one of America’s Best Employers.

The retail’s recent efforts partnering with the PGA has generated international exposure for the Ozarks. This year’s Legends of Golf tournament at Big Cedar was broadcast live to 300 million homes in 220 countries and territories.

Bass Pro Shops impacts much more than the region’s economy, however. Conserving wildlife and their habitats, as well as connecting new audiences to the outdoors, are two ways the company gives back to the community.

“Johnny’s vision places conservation and connecting people to nature at the center of everything we do,” Wlezien says.

The company works with the James River Basin Partnership to improve and protect water quality through river cleanups and educational events. Bass Pro also has partnered with federal and state leaders for the National Fish Habitat Partnership, which since 2007 has completed 599 projects across the country to restore nearly 1,560 miles of river ways.

Bass Pro also holds family-friendly events year-round to introduce young people to the outdoors and has donated more than 200,000 products in the last five years to youth-focused nonprofit organizations, such as the Boys & Girls Club and Boy Scouts of America. The company also partners with Kids Across America, Teach a Child to Fish and the Mahogany Youth Corp. to introduce the outdoors to underprivileged children from urban environments.