In another sign of a stabilizing local economy, a large building that's been sitting empty for years in the Blackthorn Corporate Park is set for millions of dollars in new investment.

MGE Wholesale, a locally based company that distributes firearms, ammunition and other related accessories for the shooting sports industry, is planning to move into the former Bowne & Co. building along Nimtz Parkway on the city's northwest side.

Brad Foster, who owns Midwest Gun Exchange in Mishawaka, created MGE Wholesale as its own distinct entity earlier this month. While Midwest Gun Exchange is a retail store located at 3415 Grape Road, the new MGE Wholesale will focus on distribution to independent dealers and chain stores across the United States and abroad.

"For 20 years, we have been involved in retail and involved in distribution as one company," Foster said. "We are now separating our distribution to be a stand-alone entity."
Foster bought the 120,000-square-foot Bowne building in December, and he said the project -- including the purchase price and renovations -- will total $4 million. He expects the distribution center to be operational by June.

He said the company does some distribution from the Mishawaka property right now, but it's out of space in that building to expand the distribution business. He said the new building will enable the company to hire more distribution employees, add new products and use more efficient equipment for handling material.

Foster said Midwest Gun Exchange employs almost 50 people, and about 20 of those employees will be transferred to MGE Wholesale. He said MGE Wholesale will hire 10 new workers later this year and another 10 workers in 2016. He said he expects to continue adding staff in 2017.

The Bowne building is the latest major industrial vacancy to be filled in South Bend.

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Source: South Bend Tribune