With Stone Brewing Co. Decision on Hold, A Look at How Columbus Courts Companies
When California-based Stone Brewing Co. announced its intention to open a new brewery and restaurant, Columbus started vying for the $31 million expansion. Enthusiastic city residents even started a grassroots attempt to lure the popular craft brewer via Twitter (@Stone2Cbus), and it paid off-the company announced in August that Columbus is among its top three potential new homes, along with two Virginia cities. Stone isn't the only business the region has courted recently. Here are a few that chose Columbus in the end.
The Stakes: A call center for the rapidly growing flash-sale website aimed at moms and kids
Economic Impact: 900 jobs, $28 million in payroll
Incentive: 12-year, 75 percent tax credit
Result: Three years ago, the Seattle-based company opened a fulfillment center in Obetz, and this summer Zulily announced plans to open a new call center in the area.
The Stakes: A 100,000-square-foot main warehouse and distribution facility for the subscription-based women's fashion retailer
Economic Impact: 400 jobs, $13 million in payroll
Incentive: Nine-year, 60 percent tax credit
Result: Early this year, Gwynnie Bee decided to open its new warehouse in Groveport rather than expand in New York, in part thanks to the greater distribution reach and lower cost of doing business here.
The Stakes: The first U.S. manufacturing facility for the South Korean auto-parts maker
Economic Impact: 80 jobs, $2.2 million in payroll
Incentive: Six-year, 50 percent tax credit
Result: The company announced this summer it would take over a vacant building in Grove City, where it will build shock absorbers.
The Stakes: The new business headquarters for the fast-food pizza chain emerging from bankruptcy
Economic Impact: 25 jobs, with potential for growth
Incentive: None
Result: Sbarro will move its headquarters from New York to Columbus this fall to be closer to its new restaurant concept, Pizza Cucinova, which launched in Easton last year.