In the eastern Missouri town of Bowling Green, the demolition of a pair of prominent buildings a few years ago left a void in the downtown district, and ultimately it inspired a revitalization effort.

City leaders are pursuing a host of ideas for reinvigorating the business district. But those big plans start with small, wooden structures. The city has three chalets that provide short-term homes for young businesses looking to test their concepts without the burden of long-term leases.

The latest episode of the Speaking Startup podcast looks at how the chalet strategy is playing out in Bowling Green.

Plus, as the threat of cyberattacks has proliferated, so have businesses focused on cybersecurity. From technology companies trying to neutralize cyber threats to insurance firms looking to mitigate financial damage from hacks, Kansas City is home to a growing number of businesses addressing the needs arising from cyber threats.

Speaking Startup: The chalet strategy

Businesses are trying to cope with the holiday season crunch in an economic climate the likes of which they have never experienced. With some projections forecasting the biggest holiday season ever for retailers, business owners are facing high demand while contending with supply chain issues, labor challenges and other lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This week's episode of the Market Dives podcast looks at challenges facing Missouri businesses as the Christmas season approaches.

First, we hear how some local retailers are getting creative to survive this vital part of the year that contributes nearly half of all revenue for some businesses.

Then, we get a glimpse at the idiosyncrasies of the seasonal labor market and what holiday hiring looks like in 2021. At a time of the year when many companies are looking to staff up, how's that going with job openings still near record highs?

Market Dives: It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas challenges

Missouri Business Alert’s Business Brief is a podcast covering business news and issues shaping the state.

Speaking Startup: The chalet strategy

Missouri Business Alert

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