Exxel Outdoors Moving National Distribution Center to Tupelo, Adding 40 Jobs
Sep 26, 2024 - Tupelo, MS
by: Daily Journal Reports
Outdoor recreation gear company Exxel Outdoors has moved its national warehousing and distribution center from Reno, Nevada, to a historic Tupelo manufacturing facility.
In what will be more than a $2 million investment, Broomfield, Colorado-based Exxel moved into the former Day-Brite/Capri/Omega Lighting warehouse. Day-Brite was the first major manufacturer to open in Tupelo after World War II.
Exxel said the move places it closer to most of its customers and also closer to its manufacturing operations in nearby Haleyville, Alabama, where it owns the largest and only major sleeping bag plant in the U.S.
Privately held Exxel says it will create at least 40 jobs, and hiring is underway.
Day-Brite opened in 1947, and at its peak employed more than 500 people. Later named, Day-Brite/Capri/Omega Lighting, it was purchased by Philips Lighting in 2007, which later became Signify in 2016. The company shut down its Tupelo operations in 2021.
Occupying the warehouse portion of the facility, Exxel Outdoors' diversified portfolio includes brands with offerings in various sectors, including outdoor recreation, military, airbeds and urban travel. Its brands include Kelty, Kelty Tactical, Ultimate Direction, Sierra Designs, Hex, Slumberjack, Wenzel, SJK and X2O.
The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance of $267,389 through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, program. Lee County also is assisting with the project.
“The Mississippi Development Authority and Lee County have provided us with an absolutely stellar experience in bringing our new Tupelo distribution operation to fruition," said Harry Kazazian, Exxel Outdoors chairman and CEO. "We look forward to becoming part of Tupelo’s amazing community, with its business-positive leadership and welcoming environment."
Tupelo Mayor Todd Jordan said “Exxel Outdoors has some of the most recognizable brands of camping gear in the world, and we are excited to welcome them to Tupelo. Their presence will further diversify our local economy, and aid in Tupelo’s appeal as a hub for business growth and innovation.”
Wesley Webb, president of the Lee County Board of Supervisors, added, "We are grateful to Exxel Outdoors for choosing to locate in Lee County, bringing new jobs and opportunities to our community. A special thank you to the Mississippi Development Authority and Community Development Foundation for their partnerships in making this project happen."