Lew’s has announced plans for a new $3.5M corporate headquarters and consolidated distribution center in Springfield, Mo. A public groundbreaking ceremony for the 58,000 sq. ft. facility is scheduled for Friday, October 31, at 1 p.m., with Lew’s personnel hosting the event and a number of professional anglers participating, including David Fritts, Wally Marshall and Kevin Short.

 

“Springfield is a growing city in the middle of the country, and it’s home,” said Lew’s CEO Lynn Reeves. “We’re close to our customers, and close to our roots. When we began looking to the future of the company, that’s what really counted.”

 

Lew’s, a legendary fishing brand known for its quality rods, reels and accessories, moved to Springfield in 2009 with a change in ownership and has been on a rapid growth climb ever since under the leadership of industry veterans Reeves and Gary Remensnyder. The new facility will more than double current space and better serve present business needs and allow for future growth. At least five new jobs will result from the expansion, adding to Lew’s current workforce of 26.

 

Chamber staff and partners at the City of Springfield have worked with Lew’s executives to facilitate the expansion and help them access local property tax abatement. Local-based Morelock-Ross Builders is leading the construction.

 

The Lew’s site is located on land north of Partnership Industrial Center, conveniently situated near the I-44 and U.S. Route 65 intersection northwest of Springfield. The address for Friday’s ceremony is 3031 N. Martin Ave.

 

Lew’s sells its fishing tackle products to a variety of independent retailers, wholesalers and major national accounts across the country, including Academy Sports, Cabela’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Gander Mountain, Mills Fleet Farm, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Tackle Warehouse and Wal-Mart. The brand also continues to steadily increase its distribution in international markets.

 

For more information on Lew’s history, products and pro staff, visit www.lews.com.