REGION CAN BE PROUD OF STRONG BUSINESS GROWTH

The pulse of a community can often be monitored by the health of its business and industry. By that measuring stick of success, Southeast Missouri can feel prosperous.

According to the Southeast Missouri Regional Planning and Economic Development Commission, 217 businesses opened their doors last year in the seven-county region served by the agency. An additional 29 businesses expanded in the region.

In all, these businesses infused the regional economy with 1,500 new jobs. That's certainly a strong indicator of a thriving region.

Leading the pack in terms of business growth was Cape Girardeau County with 126 new operations in 1990. Second was St. Francois County with 38. Other counties included in the commission report were: Bollinger, Iron, Madison, Perry and Ste. Genevieve.

As in previous years, much of the growth could be seen in the service and retail industries. That's a trend reflected by much of the state.

Of course, not all the business news was good. Along with business starts were the failures. The commission's estimate of 22 closings last year is probably too conservative. Much of the information was based on area newspaper reports and statewide periodicals, and not all closings are publicized. Many of the smaller businesses simply close their doors with little fuss or fanfare.

That's just the cyclical nature of business: New businesses replace the old. However, this area has been fortunate that the new businesses have outpaced the defunct operations.

Despite the national business downturn, a number of businesses opened their doors here during the last quarter of 1990. It demonstrates that business confidence remained high in the region, despite the slowdown. That's heartening.

The number of new businesses in the region closely mimicked last year's totals. That, too, demonstrates consistency for the region.

The region can stand proud in terms of business growth last year. This year-end report underscores the fact Southeast Missouri is a good place to live and work.