In what could be termed a significant boost to the local economy, Governor Maura Healey is marking a win with Hasbro, Inc.'s latest move. The toy and board game giant announced its plans to pack up its Rhode Island operations and set up shop in Massachusetts, as confirmed by a statement released earlier today. This relocation is anticipated to generate at least 700 jobs in the state, an infusion of employment that the Healey-Driscoll Administration has actively pursued.
A palpable sense of enthusiasm was conveyed by Governor Healey who said, "We are thrilled that Hasbro has chosen Massachusetts as the home of its new headquarters, and we're ready to support the hundreds of jobs they will create here." The Governor cited the state's leading status in education, health care, and innovation as pull factors – also mentioning high livability rankings as attractive features for businesses and families alike. These comments were echoed in an announcement that highlighted the combined efforts of Hasbro's leadership and the state's economic development team in bringing this move to fruition.
Hasbro's decision is not an isolated incident but part of a larger trend, with Massachusetts seemingly on a roll in attracting big names. Last month, Massachusetts became chosen as the new home for Keurig Dr Pepper's Global Coffee Co global headquarters, following the acquisition of JDE Peet’s. Earlier engagements included LEGO inaugurating its U.S. headquarters in Boston, backing up 800 jobs, and Biogen sketching out blueprints for a new global headquarters and innovation hub in Kendall Square.
This stream of corporate relocations signals Massachusetts' emergent role as a nexus for business and expansion. In response to the influx, Governor Healey reaffirmed the state's readiness to accommodate and nurture the growth, stating, "We're proud to welcome this iconic company to Team Massachusetts — where we are number one for education, health care and innovation, and ranked the best state to live in, to raise a family, to be a woman and to be a working parent." The collaboration between state officials and Hasbro is indicative of Massachusetts' strategic approach to economic development, aiming to cater to both existing residents and prospective business entities.
