Black Tip, LLC, specializing in fluid handling components, cable management and contract injection molding, has announced plans to grow its business in Elyria with the addition of 40 new positions. To support those efforts the company has been awarded a $100,000 JobsOhio Workforce Grant.
Black Tip, which consists of Bee Valve, CableTek, Pioneer Products and Plastic Enterprises, was formed in late 2022 through a new ownership group. Since that time the company has experienced significant growth, resulting in plans to consolidate two current locations into one campus-type facility. This will provide efficiencies and position the business for future growth. Had it not been for the assistance across local and state partners, it would have been difficult for the company to remain stateside.
“The goal was always to stay in the states, but it’s often more economically viable to go offshore,” said Hallie Stewart, CEO of Black Tip, LLC. “We were previously exploring other options, but with the support we received from Lorain County Community Development, connecting us to MAGNET and Team NEO, and engaging the City of Elyria, we ultimately received a workforce grant from JobsOhio. We’re planting our roots firmly in Lorain County. Continued support will only further our confidence that this is the place to grow our business.”
To assist in facilitating Black Tip’s expansion needs and ensure they maintained operations in Northeast Ohio, specifically Elyria and Lorain County, a team consisting of Lorain County Community Development Department, the City of Elyria, OhioMeansJobs, JobsOhio and Team NEO partnered with Black Tip. Through this collaboration they were able to secure the JobsOhio Workforce Grant and develop new operational partnerships.
“Along with our local partners and JobsOhio, we are delighted to support Black Tip’s growth plans, meaning new jobs and additional revenue for the region and state,” stated Team NEO Chief Executive Officer Bill Koehler. “With our legacy in manufacturing and innovation, and our dedicated talent pool, we are confident the company will continue to grow and thrive in Northeast Ohio.”
To support Black Tip’s growth, the company has renovation plans for its existing facilities in Elyria, set to kick off in 2024.
Lorain County Commissioner Dave Moore was inspired by the project’s local and economic impact. “Our companies know we have their backs to retain and help them grow, or we’ll find a way or make one. Working with our community partners, we orchestrated real support for Black Tip, boosting manufacturing in Lorain County, and keeping a company in the U.S. – a win-win for everyone.”
Elyria Mayor Kevin Brubaker adds, “We are thrilled Black Tip is expanding their operations and creating these additional jobs for the City of Elyria. I’m proud of the collaborative efforts that took place to make this happen. I want to congratulate Black Tip, we will continue doing everything we can to support them, and the entire Elyria business community.”
In addition to receiving the JobsOhio Workforce Grant, Black Tip was also introduced to MAGNET, and has partnered with the nonprofit consulting group to optimize material and process flows to increase efficiencies, capacity and productivity. Bass Khoury, director of operations excellence at MAGNET, highlighted the “lean ops” project they have been working on with Black Tip: “MAGNET had the pleasure of working with the team at Black Tip to streamline their manufacturing footprint. It’s been exciting to help them achieve measurable and successful results.”