MEDC “Secret Shopper” Prefers Kentucky

Despite efforts to make Michigan a more affordable location for businesses to locate, our state still doesn’t fare very well when compared to surrounding states. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation recently conducted a “secret shopper” campaign to make the comparison. The MEDC developed a fake project, and pitched it to economic development officials in 14 Michigan markets, and eight markets in Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The five most expensive locations were in Michigan – all in the southeast part of the state. Locations in southwestern Michigan fared better, as did the Saginaw area. The cheapest locations – by far – were in Bowling Green and Louisville, Kentucky. No Upper Peninsula markets were included. You can see the full results of the MEDC study here.