United Art and Education Breaks Ground for Fort Wayne Expansion |

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April 21st, 2005
$2.2 Million Investment Will Double Size of Headquarters and
Distribution Center, Add 25 Jobs
FORT WAYNE, Ind. — United Art and Education, Inc., a nationwide
supplier of art and education-related supplies and materials, hosted
a ground-breaking ceremony today to mark the beginning of an expansion
of its corporate headquarters and warehouse facilities at 4413 Airport
Expressway. The expansion will result in 25 additional jobs by year-end
2009. The company’s $2.2 million investment includes more
than doubling the size of its existing building and the addition
of IT and distribution equipment. The expanded building will total
approximately 55,000 square feet and house 52 employees.
“This expansion will facilitate the continued growth of the
company,” said Mike Gugel, president of United Art and Education.
“It gives us the flexibility to provide an expanded product
line and the capacity to support additional retail locations. As
we grow, we will be adding warehouse jobs and additional professional
positions. We hope to increase efficiency, which will allow us to
provide world-class service to an increasing volume of customers,”
Gugel continued.
The Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance worked
with United Art and Education, the City of Fort Wayne, Goldstine
Knapke Company, Master Group and Bank One to secure this investment.
The City of Fort Wayne will provide a $40,000 grant to assist in
the company’s expansion. In addition, Fort Wayne City Council
approved tax abatement for the building addition and planned IT
and logistics equipment purchases.
“This expansion project and the corresponding investment
being made in the community by United Art and Education strengthen
the presence of a locally based employer and leader in its industry,”
said Fort Wayne Mayor Graham Richard. “The city is proud to
extend the services of the Division of Community Development to
help United Art grow and prosper here.”
Since 1960, United Art and Education has served schools, artists
and hobbyists nationwide through its school supplies and art materials
catalogs, in addition to retail stores in Fort Wayne, Indianapolis,
Mishawaka and Goshen; and in Dublin and Centerville, Ohio. The company’s
web site provides resources to teachers and parents at www.UnitedNow.com.
Independently owned and operated, United Art and Education is committed
to serving schools, organizations and individuals with quality products,
competitive prices and friendly customer service.
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