Manufacturer Expanding in Fort Wayne
Inside Indiana Business
Manufacturer Expanding in Fort Wayne
October 30, 2012
News Release
Fort Wayne, Ind. -- DOWCO, Inc., a Wisconsin-based company, announced that it has outgrown its current location at 2827 Freeman Street. The company will be moving to a 41,840 square foot facility at 3505 Independence Drive. The expansion will allow for 18 new positions. Bill Cupp of CBRE | Sturges represented the owner of the building in the real estate transaction.
DOWCO’s vision three years ago for growth included expansion of its operations to the Northeast Indiana region. The company’s vision resulted in the strategic decision to open a manufacturing facility in Fort Wayne, which began production in August of 2010 at the Freeman Street location. DOWCO, in just two years of operation, has more than tripled its business in Fort Wayne and has increased its workforce at an equivalent rate.
“As a result of this success, we have found it necessary to further expand our Fort Wayne operation,” said chief operating officer, Kevin Rolain. “This move will not only give us the much needed capacity for current business but will allow for continued growth going forward. “
DOWCO has secured a new facility with four times the current footprint and plans to move into the larger facility in early November. The company has budgeted for significant capital expenditures in 2013, which will lay the foundation for additional business and job creation at its Fort Wayne location.
“I’m encouraged that a small company such as DOWCO has found a successful home in Fort Wayne,” said Mayor Tom Henry. “Small businesses account for over half of the jobs in our community and we are committed to providing an environment for continued growth.”
The Fort Wayne City Council will consider approval of tax abatement for DOWCO’s planned investment in new manufacturing equipment and building improvements in November.
About DOWCO
Based in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, DOWCO, Inc. is a leader in the manufacture of premium covers for the marine and power sports industries. Prior to its present ownership, DOWCO was founded as a tent and awning company which served local markets. It was acquired in 1975 and has since continued to grow through self-expansion. For additional information on DOWCO, visit www.dowco-inc.com.
About the Alliance
The Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance began in 2000 and is the lead organization for economic development activities throughout the county. We are a non-forprofit organization supported by Allen County, the City of Fort Wayne, the Greater Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce, the Fort Wayne-Allen County Airport Authority, and various others.
The Alliance’s goal is to increase the base employment and tax base of Allen County through business retention, expansion, and attraction projects. To learn more about the Alliance, visit www.theallianceonline.com.
Source: Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
