Show-Me State Times

ICL Group, a global specialty minerals company with its North American headquarters in St. Louis, has announced plans to expand into the North American battery materials market by establishing a new manufacturing plant in north St. Louis City. The investment, estimated at half a billion dollars, is expected to create over 150 jobs and enhance the city's manufacturing capabilities.

Governor Mike Parson expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating, "ICL Group’s expansion is exciting news for St. Louis, our state, and our nation’s manufacturing independence." He recalled meeting with ICL Group two years ago in Israel and noted their commitment to innovation and economic growth.

The company currently employs 335 full-time workers across three locations in the St. Louis area. The additional jobs from this expansion will offer wages above the median county rate. Phil Brown, president of Phosphate Specialties and managing director of North America for ICL Group, commented on the decision to select a site in north St. Louis: "Our expansion into north St. Louis demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the city."

Maggie Kost from Greater St. Louis, Inc., highlighted ICL's significant financial commitment as beneficial for job growth and industry sector expansion in the region.

The Missouri Works program will support ICL's expansion by providing access to capital through tax credits or withholdings for job creation. Assistance will also come from Missouri One Start and the BUILD program.

Michelle Hataway of the Department of Economic Development praised ICL's contribution to regional growth through this major investment. Neal Richardson of St. Louis Development Corporation emphasized that construction would generate over 1,000 jobs over two years.

Mark Birk of Ameren Missouri noted that ICL's decision reflects positively on Ameren Missouri’s Smart Energy Plan, which aims to make the region more business-friendly while ensuring reliable energy supply.