Cannondale Sports Unlimited, makers of some of the world”™s most advanced bicycles and a segment of Montreal-based Dorel Industries, has opened its new global headquarters in Wilton.
The company had been based in Bethel.
The new space includes 51,000 square feet of specific design elements that support bicycle-themed research and development, engineering and marketing. The address is 761 Main Ave., Norwalk, just south of Wilton. Some 145 active employees made the move.
The building includes a bike garage, fitness center and open spaces that leverage natural light “to create a bright, inspiring workplace that brings the outside world in.”
“As Cannondale Sports Unlimited”™s rapid growth continues, it”™s critical that we have a world-class location for our employees to do their best work,” said Bob Baird, CEO and president, Cannondale Sports Unlimited. “With this new location we have created an inspiring environment for creativity and innovation, where employees can focus on designing, engineering and marketing our products, which include the best bicycles in the world.”
Cannondale received a $3 million state-backed, 10-year loan at 2 percent for the relocation, an incentive package that was designed to keep the historically local company local. Cannondale will see $2 million of that loan forgiven if the company hires and holds 75 employees across the next four years.
Cannondale Sports Unlimited collaborated with a number of partners on the project, including Stamford-based CPG Architects, Stamford-based Pavarini Construction Co. Inc. and commercial real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield. I-Park owner National Resources worked with Cannondale within its I-Park complex.
Cushman & Wakefield”™s task involved finding a property close to New York City, “which would support a wide array of operational needs, including office, R&D and product testing. They (Cannondale) also required open space to enhance product innovation and an environment that would enhance their unique corporate culture.”
