Business Buzz: Recent McKinley Developments in Wilmington & Surrounding Areas

January – June 2024

IKA Works Expansion Underway

This 15,000 SF expansion will significantly boost their laboratory and process equipment assembly production capacity in North America.  Once completed, the space will feature a second-story mezzanine and infrastructure for an internal crane.

McKinley Building Corporation Welcomes Two New Superintendents

Wilmington, NC, 2/5/24 – McKinley Building Corporation, a local commercial construction company, is pleased to announce the addition of two new superintendents to its team: Jason Marella and Tac Cozart.

Jason Marella brings over three decades of experience in the construction industry to his new role at McKinley Building Corporation.  Hailing from Wilmington, North Carolina, Marella obtained his general contractor’s license and has successfully operated his own business focusing on high-end custom trim, millwork, and cabinetry.  A dedicated family man, Marella is deeply involved in his community, serving as a volunteer coach with YMCA youth soccer and an active member of Freedom Baptist Church.

Tac Cozart, originally from Wilson, North Carolina, has also made Wilmington his home for several years. With a background in business management from North Carolina State University and construction management from East Carolina University, Cozart brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. With over 17 years in the industry, Cozart’s expertise will be invaluable to McKinley Building Corporation’s projects.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jason Marella and Tac Cozart to the McKinley Building Corporation team,” said Chad Hodges, Chief Operating Officer of McKinley Building Corporation. “Their combined experience and dedication to excellence make them valuable additions to our company as we continue to deliver top-quality construction projects to our clients.”

Leland Habitat for Humanity Re-Store Groundbreaking

Construction is underway at the new Brunswick County Habitat for Humanity, Inc. ReStore facility—now with even more space to better serve the community! This 12,000 SF retail store will help fund new home builds for families in need in Brunswick County. We are proud to work with another client whose mission so closely aligns with our own of putting faith and service to others first. Special thanks to everyone who joined us at this groundbreaking ceremony earlier this year!

Shell Building One of Sunnyvale Industrial Park Completed

Located less than one mile from the Port of Wilmington, Sunnyvale Industrial Park 1 is an 18,000 SF pre-engineered metal building that features 22’ clear height, three-phase power, an ESFR fire suppression system, and 12×12 garage doors spaced every 25’.  Reach out to Bryan Greene (910) 352 – 1380 / bryan@cameronco.com or John Gavin (704) 617 – 1595 / john@cameronco.com for leasing today!

Polyhose Expansion Breaks Ground

Polyhose Inc., a prominent manufacturer of industrial hoses and fittings based in Chennai, India, is set to significantly expand its operations at Pender Commerce Park in Greater Wilmington, North Carolina. This expansion, dubbed Phase 2, will double the size of their existing facility to a combined 110,000 SF and further solidify their North American base established in 2019. Polyhose will double its facility size by 55,000 SF and has acquired over eight additional acres (Lot 4) for future growth. The completion is targeted for Q1 2025.  Since setting up in the U.S., Polyhose has enhanced its brand presence and leveraged existing relationships to expand its market reach in North America.  

Leland Towne Center O2 Fitness Breaks Ground

Construction is underway for a new O2 Fitness at Leland Towne Center! Conveniently located next to the new Lowe’s Home Improvement Store in Leland, this state-of-the-art fitness facility will span approximately 36,000 square feet.  It will feature top-tier amenities including full locker rooms, a dedicated kids’ fitness and play area, and best-in-class exercise equipment. We are thrilled to collaborate with Wilson-Blount Development and C&S Commercial Properties on bringing this exciting project to life.

FedUp Foods Expands to Wilmington

FedUp Foods, a leading fermented beverage manufacturer, announced plans to open a new facility at 715 Greenfield St. in Wilmington.  Known for its kombucha, pre- and probiotic sodas, Tepache, and cold brew coffee, the company aims to begin operations by late summer.  Founded by Sarah Mullins and Jeannine Buscher, FedUp Foods will utilize the former Tru Colors Brewing site, now owned by Spark715 LLC, to house its largest production facility yet.  This expansion is expected to create up to 100 jobs and produce over 200,000 barrels of product annually.

In addition to beverages, the Wilmington facility will facilitate FedUp Foods’ entry into the food market. CEO David Gray highlighted Wilmington’s logistical advantages, citing proximity to the port and rail, and emphasized the company’s commitment to quality and community impact. The expansion was supported by Wilmington Business Development and the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce.

We at McKinley are excited to work with FedUp Foods on this renovation and expansion project.

Parkway Hyundai is Open for Business

We are thrilled to announce that construction is complete on the new Parkway Volvo Subaru Hyundai and their state-of-the-art automotive dealership & showroom is now open! Our team worked diligently over an 18-month schedule to complete this 37,000 SF project, which involved the complete demolition and relocation of the existing business, followed by the construction of the new facility. We extend our gratitude to Michael McLeod, Topsail Engineering, Paramounte Engineering, and the design team for their invaluable contribution to the project.

This dealership stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in commercial construction. We are proud to contribute to the growth and development of Wilmington’s business community and look forward to seeing the positive impact Parkway Hyundai will have on the local economy. A big thank you to our dedicated team and partners who made this project possible. We are eager to continue building strong relationships and delivering exceptional results in all our future endeavors.

Coastal Millwork Supply’s New Facility at Blue Clay Business Park Underway

We are excited to announce that we are under contract and will begin construction soon on Coastal Millwork Supply and Risley Padula Construction’s new headquarters in the New Hanover County Blue Clay Industrial Park. This 62,000 SF facility will be the first project in the park and will include a 32’ clearance height, ESFR fire suppression system, and office mezzanine. We are thrilled to work with Hipp Architecture & Development, Topsail Engineering, Paramounte Engineering, New Hanover County, and Wilmington Business Development on this project.

Wilmington Trade Center 3 Breaking Ground

At 100,081 square feet, WTC 3 will be the third building constructed by McKinley for Edgewater Ventures at Wilmington Trade Center, increasing the park’s total footprint to 415,301 square feet. WTC 3 will feature a 32-foot clear height, an ESFR fire suppression system, and a 180-foot truck court. Alongside the construction of WTC 3, initial site work for Phase 2 of the park will commence, ultimately expanding the total square footage to 3.3 million.

Quality Chemical Laboratories Receives Recognition

Discover Quality Chemical Laboratories’ new factory extension in Wilmington, NC featuring a stunning curved staircase with TemperShield bent glass railings by Glasshape. Completed in early 2024 with McKinley Building Corporation and Cothran Harris Architecture, the project doubled QCL’s operational space, including sterile drug manufacturing capabilities. Collaboration with P&P Artec Inc. ensured seamless integration of Glasshape’s signature 7/8″ (22.28mm) laminated glass, exemplifying meticulous design and execution. See the featured article by Glasshape