St. Louis/Southern Illinois Labor Tribune, Dec. 18, 2025
On Jan. 1, Missouri’s minimum wage will increase from $13.75 to $15 – as approved by Missouri voters through Proposition A. Business owners across the state are welcoming the increases, saying they will enable customers to afford more of their products and services and strengthen the economy. Increased wages will also reduce costly employee turnover, boost productivity and improve customer service. ...
Erik Milan, owner of Stick It In Your Ear music store in Springfield, Missouri, said, “We welcome Missouri’s minimum wage increase to $15. When people earn more, they have more to spend at local shops like ours. Customer spending is what keeps small businesses alive and growing. And we know from experience that fair wages mean employees stay with you longer and provide the kind of customer service that turns first-time visitors into regulars.”
Michelle La Fata, owner of Pasta La Fata in Columbia, Missouri, said, “Investing in our team through fair wages continues to be a priority at Pasta La Fata. While small businesses face economic headwinds, I believe paying people well is both the right thing to do and good for long-term business sustainability.”
Mike Schroeder, co-owner of Oddly Correct coffee in Kansas City, Missouri, said, “Increasing the minimum wage to $15 is a great way to start the new year. Missouri workers need the pay increase and businesses gain from broader consumer demand. It’s sad that the paid sick leave component of Proposition A was repealed despite strong public support. Investing in our own employees with better pay and benefits has paid off for us in every way. We don’t have costly turnover, our team is engaged and productive, and with happier employees, we have happier customers.” ...