HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Several Reno County businesses have completed or undertaken major expansion projects in 2026, contributing to what local economic development officials describe as a significant year for investment.
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Debra Teufel highlighted multiple projects Monday on KWBW's BW Morning Show, including developments involving PrairieLand Partners, APAC Shears and Gun Bros.
Teufel said the investments demonstrate the continued commitment of established businesses to Reno County.
PrairieLand Partners recently completed a $6 million addition to its Hutchinson facility, including a training center developed in partnership with Hutchinson Community College.
The facility is designed to help prepare students for careers as diesel technicians and agricultural equipment specialists.
Teufel said the training partnership provides opportunities for students to begin coursework through HutchCC before completing additional hands-on training at PrairieLand Partners.
Meanwhile, APAC Shears has developed a new regional headquarters near the intersection of Avenue G and Airport Road.
Teufel said the multimillion-dollar expansion represents another significant investment in the community. The Reno County Commission is expected to consider a final industrial revenue bond-related action associated with the development Tuesday, Nov. 10.
The Chamber also recognized Gun Bros for its new facility along 17th Avenue in Hutchinson.
Teufel said the business is operated by the Gannaben family, a multigenerational Reno County family with agricultural roots and several business ventures.
The projects were among those highlighted during the Chamber's October economic development impact breakfast.
The breakfast showcased Elevate Reno County, a strategic economic development initiative involving Greater Hutch, Startup Hutch and partners throughout Reno County.
Teufel said the Chamber wants to recognize both large-scale developments and smaller expansions that contribute to local job growth.
The projects come as Reno County prepares for additional development associated with Evergy's $1 billion natural gas power plant, which Teufel described as the largest single investment in county history.