High-profile Arkansas companies created during recessions

Some of Arkansas’ largest and best known companies were formed during recessionary periods, including Fort Smith-based Baldor Electric Co.

That’s the thought-provoking perspective provided by economist Greg Kaza with the Little Rock-based Arkansas Policy Foundation.

Kaza, interviewed by Roby Brock in a “Roots in a Recession” story, said Wal-Mart Stores, Tyson Foods, Murphy Oil, Baldor, Deltic Timber and Dillard’s were created during a recession.

“Perhaps the lesson is that entrepreneurs are optimists,” Kaza said.

Link here for a 60-second segment of the interview.