Business Retention and Expansion in Lawrence

Abstract

Lawrence was one of nine Kansas mid-sized communities selected for a study of business retention and expansion in the state. A sample survey of 102 Lawrence business firms was conducted to find determinants of business retention and expansion of existing industries in the community. Survey participants were drawn from various business segments constituting the economic base. Retail firms and service firms that were entirely local were not included in the survey.

The survey aimed at identifying factors that influence the retention and expansion of existing firms in Lawrence such as taxes, infrastructure, state and local regulations and others. It also explored the potential of Lawrence firms to expand within their local community. Furthermore, the survey focused on assisting the establishment of local retention and expansion efforts and discovering community-related and or state-related problems and· issues that influence retention and expansion of industries.