Lexington, Kentucky-based Big Ass Fans, a producer of high-volume, low-speed fans, is expanding its production capabilities by opening a 210,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Fort Worth, Texas. This new location aims to better serve the company’s largest market and enhance relationships with local suppliers.
“What’s most exciting to me about the new site is that it will benefit our customers, our supplier partners, our employees, and the local economy,” said Ken Walma, CEO of Big Ass Fans. “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. Proximity to suppliers and increased manufacturing capacity, along with ready access to a skilled workforce, will enable us to better and more quickly serve our customers across the state and region.”
Big Ass Fans plans to hire 100 local employees in Fort Worth initially, with the potential for further growth as the business expands. The company, founded 25 years ago as HVLS Fan Co., originally focused on serving the farming sector by providing cooling solutions to improve milk production in dairy barns. The company’s name evolved after customers frequently referred to its large-scale products as “big ass fans.” Today, Big Ass Fans is known for its innovative airflow and energy-saving solutions and has built a strong reputation both domestically and internationally.
“I am thrilled to welcome Big Ass Fans to the Fort Worth family and look forward to their continued investment in our community,” said District 7 City Councilmember Macy Hill. “As an industry leader in airflow and energy savings, their new manufacturing and distribution facility is a welcome addition to Fort Worth’s economy.”
Mayor Mattie Parker also expressed her support for the company’s expansion, saying, “We are proud to celebrate Big Ass Fans’ expansion and welcome them to Fort Worth. This expansion underscores our commitment to fostering a thriving business environment and will bring positive economic impact and new opportunities to our vibrant city.”
