After sitting vacant for almost eight years, the former Stanley Black & Decker plant, located just east of Rock Falls, has a new owner. Robinson Investments Ltd., headquartered in Bellefontaine, OH, has announced that it has bought the property, and it will now house the I-88 Distribution Center, LLC. The 640,000 square foot structure located on 124 acres sits about a quarter mile from I-88.
Jerry Robinson, Chairman of Robinson Investments Ltd., and his son and partner, Matthew Robinson, President and CEO, have over 47 years’ experience in warehousing, logistics, and commercial and residential real estate development, and are described by industry insiders as astute, down to earth businessmen. The company has over 4.6 million square feet of warehousing, manufacturing and commercial space, and has a client list that reads like a ‘who’s who’ of business.
Jerry Robinson explained, “This is an excellent location, with a lot of positives, from the building’s condition, to the central location close to all forms of transportation, to the talented and hard-working workforce. We see a real value to being here. We’ll be looking for manufacturing and warehousing tenants, and will play the role of landlord or operations manager. We’ve a few prospects already in mind and look to have this facility ‘humming’ with activity soon.”
Rock Falls Mayor Bill Wescott said, “We’ve waited a long time for this and want to welcome the Robinsons to the region. They have a vision for the facility, and an appreciation for the assets in the region that leave me very encouraged. Good things have been happening here, and they look like they’ll continue.”
Gary Camarano, Whiteside County’s Economic Development Director, said, “This is great news for the region. Seeing the facility removed from its ‘moth balled’ status and moved into ‘active’ status with an owner that sees the value of a Northwest Illinois location, and has real plans for bringing in business is exciting. This is an experienced operator with a track record of success. It is a positive for our region.”
Businesses looking for information on leasing space at the I-88 Distribution Center should contact Robinson Investments at (937) 593-1849.