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Big Ass Fans Blows Into Fort Worth: A Fresh Breeze for Jobs and Innovation!

by Bob Francis, Breaking Now News
September 2, 2024

As temperatures soar in Texas, it’s no surprise that Big Ass Fans, headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, has made a significant move by opening a sprawling 210,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Fort Worth. Located at 3001 Northwest Centre Drive, this state-of-the-art plant is poised to meet the demands of a hot marketplace.

Why Fort Worth? The Heart of Innovation

“Texas is our number one market and home to several of our largest customers — it’s also where many of our valued suppliers are based,” said CEO Ken Walma during the facility's grand opening on August 28. Initially, the company will hire about 100 employees, with plans to expand that number to as many as 400 as operations ramp up.

A Rich History in Cooling Solutions

Founded 25 years ago as HVLS Fan Co., Big Ass Fans originally catered to the agricultural sector, focusing on keeping livestock cool to enhance milk production. Over the years, the company has expanded its reach to various industries through word-of-mouth referrals.

• Word-of-Mouth Success: “A lot of our business is still word-of-mouth,” Walma noted. “People like our product.”
• Mission-Driven Growth: The company aims to make environments healthier, safer, and more productive by providing effective air temperature control.

Why Choose Big Ass Fans?

Walma emphasized the versatility of their fans, stating, “We have fans in warehouses, mines, amphitheaters, ballparks—places where we’ve all sweated and thought, ‘There’s nothing I can do.’ Yes, there is: use our Big Ass Fans.”

The company’s name has become iconic, stemming from customer inquiries that included the phrase “big ass fans.” Today, it represents an industry leader known for its innovative products. The company has a mascot named Fanny and a loyal customer base referred to as “raving fans.”

Impact of Climate Change on Business

According to Walma, their growth is closely tied to rising temperatures, as extreme heat has made their products essential for creating comfortable work environments. “Labor is becoming more precious, so we help companies improve working conditions, reduce absenteeism, and enhance job satisfaction,” he explained.

Fort Worth: A Hub for Manufacturing

Fort Worth is strategically positioned amid numerous warehouses and manufacturing plants, making it an ideal location for Big Ass Fans. Walma highlighted the flourishing e-commerce and reshoring activities as positive macro factors for business growth.

Market Trends: Are Homebuyers Waiting?

In other news, pending home sales have dropped by 6.9% in the four weeks ending August 25, marking the biggest annual decline in nearly a year, according to a recent report from Redfin, a national real estate brokerage. Despite a decrease in median monthly housing payments to the lowest levels since February, many buyers are hesitating to complete purchases.

Adding Neon to the Stockyards

The iconic Fort Worth Stockyards have recently enhanced their visual appeal with a new neon sign at The General Store & Trading Post, designed in collaboration with local artists. This addition adds vibrancy to the historic area and draws more visitors.

Design Firms on the Move

In the realm of architecture and design, KTGY has acquired GDA Architects, the firm behind Fort Worth’s new luxury high-rise, Deco 969. This merger promises to boost both firms' capabilities and regional influence.

Banking Merger for Local Impact

Busey Bank and CrossFirst Bank are merging in a significant transaction valued at approximately $918.8 million. This merger will enhance Busey’s presence in key markets, including Dallas-Fort Worth and Denver, creating a more formidable financial institution with 778 locations across ten states.

What do you think?

• How do you feel about Big Ass Fans’ expansion in Fort Worth? Will this lead to more job opportunities?
• Do you think the name "Big Ass Fans" helps or hinders their marketing strategy?
• What impact do you believe climate change is having on businesses in Texas?