News

A message to Kansas companies from KDOC Secretary Pat George

June 2014

Dear Kansas Business Owner:

I want to make you aware of an exciting opportunity to expand your business. On Tuesday, July 8, Walmart Corporation will host its first ever Made in the USA “Open Call” Event at its corporate headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas.

The Open Call Event will be focused on new business development. Current suppliers that wish to present new categories will be featured alongside suppliers with U.S. manufacturing capabilities who are not currently doing business with Walmart. Senior leaders, buyers and merchant leadership will be available for meetings.

As you may know, there is a growing national trend underway that could see the return of 800,000 to 2.5 million jobs from the foreign operations of both U.S. and international companies, and their suppliers, back to the United States over the next decade. We want Kansas businesses to benefit from this trend, and this open call event is a great chance to work with one of the world’s biggest retailers.

The agenda on July 8:
    • 9 a.m.-10 a.m.: General Session – Home Office Auditorium / Simulcast in MLK Large Room 4 and 5.
    • 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Supplier Meetings – Walmart Home Office/ MLK Meeting Rooms.

Again, you should plan to attend if you are a new supplier with U.S. manufacturing capabilities or a current Walmart U.S. supplier with new categories of products. Walmart requests that your business have $3 million in revenue to participate in this event.

Walmart is looking for at least 1,000 businesses to participate. For more information and registration information, please visit Walmart’s website at http://madeinusaopencall.com/.

Thank you again for your efforts to make Kansas the best state to do business!

Sincerely,
 
Pat George
Secretary of Commerce