As Johnny Morris has built Bass Pro Shops from a one-man operation at his father's liquor store into a 58-store chain, the Springfield entrepreneur finds himself in an esteemed class.
The founder of the Springfield-based outdoor megaretailer is reportedly worth at least $2.8 billion, according to data compiled by Bloomberg for its Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which is updated daily.
In a video report, Bloomberg reported Morris' net worth ranks him in the 500-plus category among the world's billionaires. It notes, too, the Missourian's fortune has increased 18 percent, or by $400 million, year-to-date. As of June 3, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates topped the list with a net worth of $72.4 billion. Bloomberg measures net worth based on market changes, the economy and its own reporting.In a hand-written note to Bloomberg, Morris acknowledged the report.
"Being included on your list is not my favorite thing, but then again, things could be worse," Morris said in the note. "Bass Pro Shops could only have happened in America - the home of the free enterprise system that rewards things like hard work, value, innovation and genuine friendly service."
Bass Pro officials disputed Bloomberg's valuation. “Bass Pro’s financials are and always have been private,” the company said in written responses to questions from Bloomberg. “Any valuation of the company by outsiders is nothing more than speculation from people with no first-hand knowledge of Bass Pro Shops.”
In the video, Peter Newcomb, an editor with Bloomberg News, referred to Morris as paternal, something of a nice uncle.
"He's very media shy. He seems very folksy and down-to-earth. I just don't think he's very interested in exposure," Newcomb said. "We don't know that much about him."
In his note, Morris, who Bloomberg reports as 65 years old, played up the support of his family and the work of his employees for the success of Bass Pro, which is said to have annual sales of at least $2.6 billion.
“I feel especially blessed to have had the steadfast loyal support of my family and extended family of very talented and passionate Bass Pro Shops, Tracker [Marine] and Big Cedar team members by my side," Morris said. "Together, we’ve shared a remarkable journey - and it’s not over yet.”
Bass Pro, which most recently announced plans for a third Canadian store in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, has 20 of its tourist-attracting facilities in the works.
This installment of Springfield Business Journal’s Architects & Engineers Project Report showcases 26 endeavors by area design and engineering professionals.
