Team Wendy Announces Significant Expansion in Cleveland

Team Wendy, a leading global provider of exceptional head protection systems and part of the Avon Protection plc Group, announced plans to grow its business in the Northeast Ohio Region, adding 200 new jobs to its current staff of 200 located at 17000 St. Clair Avenue in Cleveland. The Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) approved the project for tax credit assistance during its Ohio Tax Credit Authority meeting today.

The company, serving military, law enforcement, search and rescue, first responders, and adventure markets around the world, will grow its production in Cleveland, consolidating positions from California. The Cleveland locations will serve as “Team Wendy’s Center of Excellence in Head Protection,” with the addition of three new product lines.  

“Investing in Cleveland is not just about expanding our operations; it's about investing in the community that has been our home for years,” said James Wilcox, President of Team Wendy. “This expansion marks a pivotal moment for Team Wendy, and we are excited to strengthen our commitment to innovation, quality, and the talented workforce of Northeast Ohio.”

While there was competition from other states where Team Wendy has operations, the multi-organization team, including the City of Cleveland, ODOD, JobsOhio, and Team NEO, worked with leadership to bring new jobs to Cleveland.

“Team Wendy’s decision to double its workforce and establish new product lines at its Cleveland facility demonstrates Ohio’s value proposition for manufacturers seeking growth in the North American market,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “With talent from Ohio, Team Wendy will utilize the latest technology to produce protective headgear critical to our first responders, law enforcement and the men and women who serve in our armed forces.” 

“We are thrilled to support Team Wendy in creating over 200 jobs that will manufacture protective equipment for the men and women of America’s armed forces,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “This $15 million investment in our South Collinwood neighborhood represents a strong commitment to continue to grow and thrive in Cleveland.”

The Northeast Ohio Region’s prowess in manufacturing, making up 20% of the region’s GDP, was a factor in the company’s decision to continue to grow here.

“We are delighted that Team Wendy chose the Northeast Ohio Region to grow its vital business, supporting military, first responders, and other public-serving industries,” added Team NEO Chief Executive Officer Bill Koehler. “Along with JobsOhio and our local partners, all of us at Team NEO look forward to supporting Team Wendy’s ongoing success.”  

About Team Wendy
Team Wendy, part of the Avon Protection PLC group of brands, is dedicated to providing exceptional head protection systems designed from the inside out for those who risk their lives every day. Founded in 1997, our Cleveland-based company places a strong focus on the prevention of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in honor of the company’s namesake Wendy Moore, who died tragically from a TBI following a ski accident. 

As a leading supplier of helmet systems for military, law enforcement, search and rescue, and adventure sports, Team Wendy is steadfast in our dedication to the pursuit of improving head protection research, design, and development, bringing more choice, better technology, and reliable customer service to the industry. 

Learn more at www.teamwendy.com.
 
About Team NEO
Team NEO is a private, nonprofit economic development organization that ignites economic vibrancy, fosters sustainable growth, and champions equitable prosperity. As a designated JobsOhio Network Partner, we collaborate across all 14 counties in the Northeast Ohio Region to create strategies to attract and retain companies, drive innovation, cultivate a skilled workforce, advance market-ready sites, and promote and engage the region. To learn how Team NEO helps make Northeast Ohio more competitive, visit northeastohioregion.com. 

About JobsOhio
JobsOhio, Ohio's private nonprofit economic development corporation, enhances company growth and personnel development through business attraction, retention, and expansion across ten competitive industry sectors. With a team of seasoned professionals, JobsOhio utilizes a comprehensive network to foster talent production in targeted industries and attract talent through Find Your Ohio. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition, Lake to River Economic Development, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, One Columbus, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership, and Team NEO. JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage.