RIDDELL OPENS NEW PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION FACILITY IN NORTH RIDGEVILLE, OHIO

Riddell, the leader in football innovation, recently opened its 350,000 square-foot operations in North Ridgeville, Ohio, responsible for assembly of on-field football helmets, custom shoulder pads, equipment reconditioning services and team laundry. The new facility also manages the production of full-size collectible football helmets and distribution of football gear and apparel, which was relocated from Illinois. On Sunday, May 21, Riddell hosted an open house for employees and community members including tours, family activities and games, giveaways, and a charitable food drive.

Riddell's new production facility in North Ridgeville, Ohio.

“Our investment in the North Ridgeville facility is representative of the strength of our business, commitment to better servicing our customers, and focus on leading football to a strong future,” said Dan Arment, President and CEO of Riddell and BRG Sports. “Our new Ohio operations provide our team members with a best-in-class workplace, more ways to contribute to the business, and new opportunities to grow their careers with us.”

With construction of the building beginning in July 2016, the project was completed in ten months and the facility was fully operational in the first week of May. The new facility features a fitness center, larger break and training rooms, additional storage, shipping/receiving access, and ample parking. In particular, the break room has expanded seating, six computer kiosks, open market vending, and outdoor patio seating adjacent to the building.

“We’re appreciative of the warm reception the North Ridgeville community has shown Riddell and our team members,” said Ben Marker, General Manager for Riddell in North Ridgeville. “Riddell will be providing additional employment opportunities for those interested in joining the team as we continue to deliver our industry-leading products and services to our customers everywhere.”

Not only was the move advantageous to employees at Riddell, but it also serves as a major benefit to the North Ridgeville community. Riddell adds visibility to the town from the Ohio Turnpike and brings added commerce to a budding community that continues to expand through housing and business development.

“Riddell’s move to our city has been a welcomed opportunity that our community has embraced throughout this entire process,” said G. David Gillock, Mayor of North Ridgeville. “To accommodate such a well-known brand and organization like Riddell is tremendous for us and we hope it is the beginning of a positive trend among other companies looking to improve their capabilities, either through expansion of facilities or relocation.”

About Riddell: Riddell is a premier designer and developer of football helmets, protective sports equipment, head impact monitoring technologies, apparel and related accessories. A recognized leader in helmet technology and innovation, Riddell is the leading manufacturer of football helmets and shoulder pads, and a top provider of reconditioning services (cleaning, repairing, repainting and recertifying existing equipment). For more information, visit our website at http://www.riddell.com, like the Riddell Facebook page, or follow Riddell on Instagram and Twitter @RiddellSports.