Cwi Gifts and Crafts, a prominent wholesale supplier of home décor, gifts, and crafts, known for its extensive range of cwi gifts, has announced a significant expansion in Columbus, Ohio. The company, which began as a small retail venture in Central Ohio four decades ago, is set to invest over $4.6 million to acquire and develop a larger facility in the Columbus Region. This strategic move will more than triple its current logistics and distribution capabilities and is projected to create 10 new jobs over the next three years, adding to its existing workforce of 83 employees.
“Our journey from a modest retail store to a wholesale enterprise with a reach across two countries has been incredible,” stated Farley Piper, President of CWI Gifts and Crafts. “The Columbus Region has been instrumental in our growth, providing exceptional access to our customer base and a supportive business environment.”
The expansion will see CWI Gifts transition from its current Pataskala location to a substantial 207,000-square-foot space situated at 4600 S. Hamilton Road in Groveport. This new site, previously the headquarters and warehouse of Sofa Express, has remained vacant for some time and offers more than three times the space CWI currently occupies. The $4.6 million plus investment will be allocated to building renovations, advanced machinery and equipment, and upgrades to their IT infrastructure, ensuring seamless operations and enhanced service for their clients seeking cwi gifts and related products.
The company anticipates commencing recruitment for the 10 new positions in 2015. These roles will span across IT, sales, and administrative departments, with all positions expected to be filled by 2018, further solidifying CWI Gifts’ commitment to growth and job creation in the region.
Founded in 1975 by a husband-and-wife team, CWI Gifts has evolved into a major player in the wholesale market, now serving 27,000 stores throughout the U.S. and Canada. Demonstrating its family-oriented values, the second generation, including two daughters and a son-in-law, have joined the original owners in managing the business. During peak seasons, CWI efficiently ships approximately 1,200 packages daily, highlighting its robust distribution network for delivering cwi gifts and crafts supplies.
Jeff Green, Assistant City Administrator for the City of Groveport, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion: “CWI’s decision to expand in Groveport is a mutually beneficial development. They have found an ideal facility to accommodate their growth aspirations, and we are delighted to see this previously vacant space revitalized and contributing to our local economy. We warmly welcome this established, family-owned business to Groveport.” This move underscores the continued success and expansion of CWI Gifts and Crafts as a leading provider of wholesale cwi gifts and home décor, reinforcing its commitment to the Columbus Region and the broader market.
