What's New in West Chester! | |
AEROSPACE BUSINESSES SOAR IN WEST CHESTER
Ohio, known as the home of aviation, is also the number one supplier to Boeing and Airbus. GE Aerospace, a pioneer in the aerospace industry, made southwest Ohio its home 75 years ago and West Chester Township serves as a hub to businesses providing aerospace products and services to the aerospace industry.
CFM International, a West Chester-based company that is a 50/50 joint venture with GE Aerospace accounts for 70% of the global commercial engine market. CFM International produces the advanced LEAP product line which is the engine of choice to power Airbus and Boeing products.
In 2022, the conglomerate General Electric made a historic split creating three distinct public companies separating its healthcare and energy businesses, and rebranding its aircraft division to GE Aerospace. The separation will become official in 2024 when GE Aerospace headquarters will be officially located in Cincinnati—making southwest Ohio an even stronger player in the aerospace industry and shoring up GE Aerospace’s commitment to the region.
Southwest Ohio and West Chester Township specifically are where aerospace companies, and their strong network of partners and suppliers, come to invest in the future of aerospace manufacturing whether in fields of advanced 3D printing, aviation engineering, aerospace technologies, un-crewed aerial systems and countless others.
The presence of a company like GE Aerospace attracts a network of suppliers, businesses and network partners to support their work and acts as a magnet to attract a skilled workforce and talent pipeline of aerospace manufacturing and engineering skilled employees. West Chester’s central location between the Cincinnati and Dayton regions offers access to a skilled workforce of 1.89 million within a 30-mile radius. West Chester has more than 2,500 employees working in the aerospace industry alone.
In addition to GE Aerospace, West Chester has become home to numerous major aerospace companies, including:
Barnes Aerospace West Chester locations are Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and Aftermarket operations. The OEM strategic business unit provides complex fabricated and precision-machined components and assemblies for OEMs of commercial and military turbine engines, nacelles, airframes and also industrial gas turbines. Barnes Aerospace aftermarket strategic business unit provides Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services and spare parts for many of the world’s major turbine engine manufacturers, airline operators and third-party providers.
CFM International is the world’s leading supplier of commercial aircraft engines with a product line that sets the industry standard for efficiency, reliability, durability, and optimized cost of ownership. CFM International produces the LEAP family of engines and supports LEAP and CFM56 fleets for operators worldwide.
CTL Aerospace formulated and provided NASA with the resin system for the heat shield that protected the re-entry vehicles’ return to earth. CTL Aerospace offers commercial and military applications of advance composite components. CTL is a supplier to every major gas turbine engine manufacturer and aircraft OEM and continues to innovate in the use of advanced composite systems for customers.
Eagle Composites provides high performance polymer matrix composites (PMC’s) and advanced manufacturing solutions. The company’s manufacturing capability and capacity is focused on production of PMC’s components and assemblies for the commercial aerospace, business jet and defense industries. Eagle Composites’ expertise in design support, tooling, materials, processing and quality systems are brought together in its project management process (PMP) which ensures successful new product introduction (NPI) and production ramp up.
Flighttime Enterprises has more than 16 years of experience in the supply of aircraft equipment and is a partner of more than 100 operators and customers worldwide. Flighttime Enterprises’ primary activities and focus is the implementation of comprehensive programs to supply aircraft engines, APUs, landing gear, wheels and brakes, spare parts and organization of service maintenance and repairs of components and assemblies for aircraft operators.
GE Additive is a world leader in metal additive design and manufacturing. Through its integrated offering of additive experts, advanced machines, and quality powders, GE Additive empowers its customers to build innovative new products that solve manufacturing challenges, improve business outcomes and help change the world for the better.
GE Aerospace is a world-leading provider of commercial and military jet engines, components, avionics and electrical power systems. GE Aerospace employs 9,000 in the Cincinnati region and is also the third largest manufacturer in the area.
Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Northrop Grumman delivers products and services to customer in 25 nations. Northrop Grumman continues to lead the charge in stealth with the world’s first sixth-generation aircraft, the B-21 Raider. Decades of government and industry collaboration and investment have pushed the boundaries of what is possible, allowing stealth technology to continuously evolve with national security needs.
According to the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), the global aerospace parts manufacturing market size is projected to reach $1.36 trillion by 2030. West Chester aerospace businesses are clearly on target to play a significant role in the national and global economy of this huge and diverse market with the products they manufacture and services they offer spread across the commercial, military and industrial sectors.
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WEST CHESTER HAS A NEW "BIG" BUILDING
Construction is wrapping up on what is now the largest commercial building in West Chester Township. It was already a big building to begin with (770,130 sq. ft.), but now that expansion is nearly complete, the building will be more than one million square feet (1,045,545 sq. ft.). The business is SanMar Corporation.
SanMar, the nation’s premier supplier of wholesale imprintable clothing and accessories, announced the 275,415 square-foot expansion to its existing West Chester facility at 8901 Global Way in May 2022.
The family-owned and operated business launched back in 1971. SanMar believes blank apparel is just the beginning of countless inspiring stories. Screen printers, embroiderers, athletic dealers, promotional companies and more count on SanMar for top-quality apparel. Whether supporting its communities and customers or reducing its environmental impact, creating positive change is at the heart of everything SanMar does.
As the largest supplier of wholesale imprintable clothing and accessories in the United States, SanMar Corporation does more than just make and sell t-shirts—it builds meaningful connections that elevate lives. SanMar’s products and the connections they create impact organizations, individuals and the world.
Prior to this addition, Cornerstone Brands was the largest commercial building in West Chester with 987,717 square feet of space at 5568 West Chester Road.
Schumacher Dugan, a general contractor and land development company headquartered in West Chester Township for more than 35 years, was the contractor for SanMar’s project. Schumacher Dugan also constructed the Cornerstone Brands building in 1998.
Schumacher Dugan’s team of professionals, with years of industry experience behind them, has completed millions of dollars in commercial and industrial projects in West Chester. Schumacher Dugan has played a major role in the development of West Chester’s commercial market.
ATA Beilharz Architects, a Cincinnati-based architectural and planning firm, was the architect and designer for SanMar’s expansion project. Since 1975, ATA Beilharz Architects have been providing local, state and national clients with creative and cost-effective solutions to their particular design needs.
“West Chester is honored SanMar chose to expand and grow in the community, and we look forward to seeing what they do next,” said Community Development Director Aaron Wiegand.
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BENEFITS OF JOINING THE WEST CHESTER-LIBERTY CHAMBER ALLIANCE
The West Chester-Liberty Chamber Alliance can help members build professional networks and market their businesses; and is a smart, strategic business decision. With more than 400 chambers of commerce in the State of Ohio, it is often said “if you’ve seen one Chamber, you’ve seen one Chamber.”
The West Chester-Liberty Chamber Alliance exists to support the interests of its business members while assisting them in becoming better connected with the markets they serve and the resources they need. Its tag line is “connecting people and possibilities.”
Being a member of the Chamber comes with many benefits that can boost business. Whether a business with employees numbering in the thousands or only a single employee, members can enjoy an exceptional return on membership investment leveraging the Chamber’s many benefits. Below are some membership benefits, along with ways to get the most out of Chamber membership.
Credibility—Being a Chamber member can make business more desirable to customers and is a great way to be part of the community. According to a survey done by the Schapiro Group, when a business is a local Chamber of Commerce member, consumers are 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from that business. Chamber membership can increase profitability because customers view businesses more favorably.
Marketing—The Chamber offers many marketing venues to promote businesses and build company brand awareness including: its website – www.thechamberalliance.com, social media networks, a listing in the Chamber’s online directory, and business spotlights in its other publications such as the annual Connections magazine. Members can also increase awareness by sponsoring signature events and strategically advertising to other Chamber members, and the regional business community.
Member Savings—Members can receive discounts on critical services. Discounts are available on health insurance, worker’s compensation, office supplies, payment processing, and prescription drugs to name a few. Group savings add up – sometimes to thousands of dollars or more.
Networking—When businesses join the Chamber and attend one of its events, feel the positive energy in the room connecting with fellow Chamber members. By networking, members get to know other business leaders in the area, stay updated on community developments, and foster relationships with business professionals that are mutually beneficial. Create a community of business owners to turn to for support.
Professional Development—Beginning its 23rd year, Leadership 21 is a West Chester-Liberty Chamber Alliance program designed to enhance the quantity, quality and effectiveness of leadership and community awareness in West Chester and Liberty townships, and along the I-75 Growth Corridor. Leadership 21 can help leaders grow their knowledge and improve upon skills essential to running a business in today’s global economy.
The most important aspect of becoming a Chamber member though, is getting involved. Members will become better connected and more aware of the business and community needs when they are involved. Attending its many events, meeting other business owners, and looking for ways to mutually support each other’s businesses are keys to developing a strong brand awareness. View the West Chester-Liberty Chamber Alliance as a valuable business tool and make the most out of all the benefits that come with Chamber membership.
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QUARTERLY COLUMN: KEEPING UP WITH KATY K
Happy fall, ya’ll! Who can forget this quarter kicking off with the Voices of America Country Music Festival at our very own VOA museum and metro park? Concertgoers converged on a 4-day event that made West Chester look like Nashville, only better. Check out Dan and Shay giving West Chester a shout-out on their social media: https://www.facebook.com/reel/142239172212413. I like to add: Dan and Shay are only imitating what I look and sound like when coming to work each morning.
West Chester also aired a commercial on Country Music Television (CMT) highlighting all the great things about West Chester. You can view it here: https://fb.watch/naXOG3Ipvn/
If you want to see what all the concert fuss is about, check out this cool recap video: https://fb.watch/naXCrCCaOv/
Considering that most of West Chester was farmland not that long ago, I’d say West Chester was country before country was cool. Speaking of cool, did you know we have our own beer? Grainworks Brewing Company has made a West Chester 200th Jubilee Beer for our bicentennial. Want to taste West Chester? Find our beer here on Grainworks cool beer map: https://grainworks.beer/beer/wc200map/. A beer map was the thing I didn’t know I needed.
You’ve probably seen Bass Pro Shops progress at The Streets of West Chester. The new Bass Pro Shops, which will be a 123,348-square-foot mega-store and include a 20,000-square-foot restaurant, is nearing completion of its exterior and roof. Construction work began earlier this year and officials with the national chain said the giant store is scheduled to open in spring 2024. I’m working on a “Gone Fishing” sign for my office door in preparation.
This Quarter’s resource to know is: https://www.findyourohio.com/.
Ohio has more jobs than at any other time in history. When I visit businesses, the biggest struggle cited by business owners is workforce. I recently attended the Ohio Economic Development Association’s Annual Summit in Columbus. JobsOhio gave a presentation about this website tool. This is a great one-stop shop for potential employees to connect with hiring companies. Whether you are looking to hire or to be hired, this is a great resource.
I’d love to hear from you. Put on your hoodie, grab your pumpkin spice latte, and drop me a line at kkanelopoulos@westchesteroh.org. Nothing is better than fall in West Chester, Ohio- “Where families grow, businesses prosper, and there are more treats than tricks.” Happy fall, ya’ll.
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Community Development Department Updates |
WEST CHESTER ZONING PERMITS NOW ONLINE AT WESTCHESTEROH.ORG/PERMITS
An overwhelming request from our customers has been to have online zoning plan submittal—and the Township has now delivered on that.
Community Development staff has built a custom database specific to the needs of West Chester Community Development and its customers. This addition makes the process more user-friendly and accessible from anywhere.
Commercial and residential customers are now able to submit zoning permit applications and receive final zoning certificates all through the new online zoning portal found at westchesteroh.org/permits.
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West Chester: Built With You in Mind |
West Chester is a proven destination for corporate investment displayed by the expansive growth over the past two decades, yet development opportunities still exist throughout the township with commercial sites of 1 to 60 acres still available. Office, manufacturing, research and properties with accessible infrastructure, frontage on I-75 or within two miles of an interstate interchanges are available. Contact Katy Kanelopoulos at (513) 759-7325 or kkanelopoulos@westchesteroh.org for personalized assistance.
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Encore Label & Packaging, a pressure sensitive label manufacturer utilizing digital and flexographic presses, will open a 31,400 square-foot manufacturing facility at 9230 Port Union Rialto Road. Encore Label & Packaging has been in operation since 1979, getting its start as Kroger’s in-house printing plant, now serving a wide variety of markets and industries including but not limited to grocery, food and beverage, fast food, consumer products, automotive and distribution. Over the past five years, Encore Label & Packaging has received 25 awards for outstanding print quality on a wide range of products including labels, folded coupons, point-of-purchase materials, extended text labels and flexible packaging wraps and pouches. | |
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AVI Food Systems, one of America’s largest family-owned and operated food services companies, opened a 22,400 square-foot facility at 9930 Princeton Glendale Road/SR 747. Founded in 1960, AVI Food Systems serves many Fortune 500 clients from coast-to-coast operating in some of the most prestigious businesses, educational, healthcare, leisure and entertainment facilities in the country. AVI Food Systems provides the highest quality and freshest ingredients through its contemporary cafes, restaurant concepts, resident dining programs, innovative micro markets, state-of-the-art vending, premier catering services, superior concession venues, and exclusive beverage and coffee systems. | |
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Bunzl Distribution, supplier of a range of products including outsourced food packaging, disposable supplies, cleaning and safety products to food processors, supermarkets, non-retailers, convenience stores and others, will open a 54,848 square-foot facility at 7757 Union Centre Boulevard in West Chester Trade Center. Bunzl Distribution owns and operates more than 190 warehouses that serve all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, the Caribbean and parts of Mexico. Bunzl is regarded as a leading supplier in North America and as experts at streamlining logistics and supply chain management for its customers. | |
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Jasper Engine Exchange, remanufacturing quality products since 1942, opened a 4,000 square-foot facility at 6266 Centre Park Drive in Schumacher Commerce Park. Jasper Engine Exchange is one of the nation’s largest re-manufacturers of gas and diesel engines, transmissions, differentials, rear axle assemblies, air and fuel components, marine engines, sterndrives, performance engines and electric motors. Jasper has 50 branch and distributor locations that are committed to providing customers with products. | |
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IMC (formerly Ohio Intermodel Services), providers of marine drayage, expedited services, truck brokerage, transloading and warehousing, chassis provisioning, management of dedicated trains, and secured container storage, opened a 2,400 square-foot office and truck terminal at 9991 Commerce Park Drive. IMC operates depots and container storage facilities serving every major port and rail terminal in the country. IMC maintains a modern fleet of trucks and offers extraordinary visibility by means of a proprietary real-time tracking systems.
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Hamilton Bob’s, specializing in high quality new and used tractor and industrial vehicle parts, began construction on a new 25,095 square-foot building at 4770 Port Union Road just off Princeton Glendale Road/SR 747. Hamilton Bob’s carries an inventory of thousands of parts including clutches, drive trains, electrical parts, engines, hydraulics, mower parts, steering, brakes, tires, rims, tubes and manuals. Hamilton Bob’s supports many popular brands including Caterpillar, John Deere, Bobcat, Ford, Case, Kubota and more. The new facility is slated for completion first quarter 2024. | |
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MAGNUM Piering, specializing in the design, engineering and manufacturing of high-capacity steel foundations, began a 7,708 square-foot expansion to its existing West Chester world headquarters at 156 Circle Freeway Drive. MAGNUM has a 35-year legacy being recognized by contractors as the most reliable and efficient producer of underpinning and deep foundation products. MAGNUM’s West Chester manufacturing facility has state-of-the-art steel fabrication equipment and offers a highly qualified staff of craftsman to produce large orders efficiently and on time. MAGNUM’s products meet or exceed the most up-to-date industry standards, creating a high level of assurance that the product will perform as designed. | |
OFFICE / MEDICAL / TECHNOLOGY PROJECTS | |
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Response Technologies, providing emergency notification and alarm solutions, relocated its existing West Chester operations to a 7,200 square-foot facility at 9959 Cincinnati Dayton Road in Schumacher Commerce Park. For 20 years, Response Technologies has facilitated the fastest alarm systems to multiple industries protecting millions of people throughout the United States. Response Technologies products support and provide services for specialized markets such as law enforcement, courthouses, hospitals, healthcare facilities, K-12 schools, colleges and more. | |
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Ohio Implants and Dentures, a full-service dental implant and denture provider, will open a 2,693 square-foot medical facility at 7789 Cox Lane off Tylersville Road. The mission at Ohio Implants and Dentures is to restore its patients’ oral health, chewing ability, appearance and self-confidence with dental implants and dentures. Ohio Implants and Dentures offers full mouth implants, “snap in” removable implant dentures, single implants, implant bridges and dentures. | |
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Everybody’s Health, specializing in chiropractic, massage and patient wellness, opened a nearly 5,000 square-foot medical facility at 7615 Voice of America Centre Drive in the US Bank building. Everybody’s Health works with its clients to start and maintain a lifestyle motivated by health, wellness and a desire to thrive offering acupuncture, fitness and weight loss, dry needling, rehab exercises, skin care, health and wellness products. Everybody’s Health offers care to patients of all ages including infants. | |
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United Dairy Farmers (UDF), a family-founded dairy committed to making quality ice cream and related products, will construct a new 6,308 square-foot convenience store at 7175 Cincinnati Dayton Road at Liberty Way in place of its existing location. The new store will continue to offer hand-dipped cones, sundaes, milk shakes and malts with an expanded ice cream fountain and sit-down area on the “Dipside.” The new store will also offer multiple varieties of hot foods on its “Ovenside” that can be made-to-order and cooked on demand. In addition, there will be a 5,844 square-foot self-service fuel canopy area for gasoline customers. Founded in 1940, UDF is still family owned with nearly 200 ice cream parlors and convenience stores in three states. | |
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West Chester Toys, a family-owned and operated toy store promoting fun activities and family interaction for toddlers to adults, relocated its existing West Chester shop to a 1,250 square-foot store at 8234 Princeton Glendale Road/SR 747 in Beckett Commons. West Chester Toys offers a wide selection of STEM activities, do-it-yourself toys, specialty candies, snacks, craft sodas and more. Visiting West Chester Toys is an experience—there’s a train table for toddlers to discover, a video machine with more than 400 retro arcade games for all ages to play, a children’s theatre area and more.
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Chick-fil-A, known for its Original Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich and signature hospitality, was granted approval by the Board of Zoning Appeals to construct a new restaurant at 9414 Civic Centre Boulevard in The Streets of West Chester. Chick-fil-A is a family-owned and operated business serving communities across the country with more than 2,800 restaurants in 48 states. The capital A is on purpose—it means “grade A top quality.” Known for its leadership and growth opportunities, in 2022 Chick-fil-A was named a Best Employer in America by Forbes. This will be West Chester’s third Chick-fil-A restaurant. | |
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Casablanca Mediterranean Food, specializing in Mediterranean gourmet foods, will relocate and expand its existing West Chester business to a 27,627 square-foot market at 7900 Tylersville Square Drive off Tylersville Road. Casablanca Mediterranean Food offers the freshest vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, spreads, coffees, teas, and herbs. In addition, Casablanca offers fresh, high quality Halal chicken, lamb and a wide variety of other meats. The new Casablanca location will also feature a Moroccan-themed restaurant that will likely become a destination location with striking architecture and beautiful open market bazaar design. | |
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Green Farm Juicery, specializing in raw cold-pressed juices, healthy elixirs and custom veggie smoothies, will open a 579 square-foot shop at 7345 Tylers Corner Drive. Green Farm offers one-, two- or three-day juice cleanses which can give the digestive system a rest. Consistent and regular juice cleansing has many benefits including weight loss, stronger digestion, improved immunity, more energy, better complexion, increased mental clarity, decreased sugar cravings and reduced inflammation. | |
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Jeana’s Great Cakes, a custom bakery specializing in cakes for all occasions, opened a 1,000 square-foot bakery at 8779 Cincinnati Dayton Road in Olde West Chester. Jeana’s Great Cakes is dedicated to creating wedding cakes that will make a couples special day both beautiful and delicious. Jeana’s Great Cakes provides professional customer service and personalized attention for every bride and groom. Jeana’s Great Cakes also makes custom cakes for birthdays, baby showers, all occasions and events, and offers a variety of cupcakes and baked goods. | |
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Kuhlmann’s Fine Meats & Market, a family-owned upscale butcher shop with a full-service meat department and deli counter, opened a 3,000 square-foot market at 9480 Cincinnati Columbus Road/SR 42 (in the former Luigi’s facility). In addition to being a weekday hotspot for lunch on the grill, Kuhlmann’s offers a wide variety of products, including sides of beef, top-of-the-line deli meats, chef-prepared specialties and sandwiches, and an exquisite selection of beer and wine. Also, Kuhlmann provides full-service catering with menus for cocktail parties, family-style meals, pig roasts and more. | |
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Public Storage, a leading provider of storage units for personal, business and vehicle needs, began construction on a new 168,200 square-foot self-storage center at 7950 Union Centre Boulevard. Public Storage offers a wide variety of units and sizes including spaces for boats, RVs and contractor bays. Public Storage facilities includes keypad access, well-lit facilities, offers moving supplies, month-to-month rentals with no obligation and no long-term commitments. Since opening in 1972, Public Storage has grown to become the largest operator of self-storage facilities in the world and has thousands of locations across the United States and Europe. | |
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Queen City Auto House, a family-owned and operated business specializing in modern and classic automotive sales, relocated its existing West Chester business to a 9,000 square-foot facility at 8419 Cincinnati Columbus/SR 42 at Butler Warren Road. Queen City Auto House is passionate about automotives and enjoys connecting people with their dream cars. Whether it’s a daily driver or a garage queen, the auto enthusiasts at Queen City Auto House are committed to finding its customers the right vehicle. | |
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Function Boutique, specializing in sneakers and streetwear, will open a 2,787 square-foot store at 9444 Waterfront Drive in The Streets of West Chester. Function Boutique has a passion for sneakers and is committed to delivering the freshest kicks and streetwear to the community it serves. Function Boutique offers brands such as Jordan, Nike, Gallery Dept., Rhude, Palm Angels, Purple Brand and more. | |
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The Yoga Nook, a yoga studio full of compassion, security and free of judgement, opened a 1,050 square-foot studio at 7443 Tylers Corner Drive. The Yoga Nook offers a variety of classes that are open to all levels. The Yoga Nook features heated and non-heated classes such as Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin and Restorative classes that welcome all levels of yoga practitioners, whether new or seasoned. The goal at The Yoga Nook is connection, support and a restful retreat for all who enter. Yoga Nook offers public classes, private sessions, corporate yoga, student or private groups and workshops. | |
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Dance Technician, specializing in unique, personalized and functional training for dancers, opened a 1,620 square-foot dance studio at 7815 West Chester Road at Cincinnati Columbus Road/SR 42. Dance Technician offers personal yoga and stretch instruction working with dancers to modify skills so they can master the strength, flexibility and balance behind the skill. Dance Technician also offers a safe place for children to spend time after school where they can develop confidence while learning lifelong lessons in health, wellness and caring for their body and soul. | |
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Pop Collectors Paradise, offering a large selection of Funko pops, relocated its existing West Chester business to a 1,000 square-foot shop at 8777 Cincinnati Dayton Road in Olde West Chester. Pop Collectors Paradise buys, sells and trades Funko Pops and has more than 3,000 to choose from in stock. Pop Collectors Paradise also features other collectible toys and sports memorabilia.
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Yours Eyebrows, specializing in threading, waxing and lashes, opened a 1,200 square-foot salon at 7967 Cincinnati Dayton Road in Lakota Plaza. Yours Eyebrows has dedicated estheticians with extensive experience who are up on all the latest fashion trends. Yours Eyebrows offers exceptional beauty services including lash lifting, henna tattoos and more. | |
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Wing Snob, a fast-casual style restaurant serving made-to-order fresh wings and more, will open a 1,320 square-foot eatery at 8179 Princeton Glendale Road/SR 747 in West Chester Village Retail. Wing Snob is a modern, quick-service restaurant dedicated to providing customers with mouthwatering wings in a variety of amazing flavors. Wing Snob offers unique signature sauces and rubs that will satisfy even the toughest wing critics. In addition to traditional and boneless wings, Wing Snob’s menu includes chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, chicken minis, fry snobs, a wide variety of sides and desserts. | |
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The West Chester Development Council is a non-profit corporation, representing a public/private partnership between West Chester Township and the private business sector established to promote economic development initiatives. The following organizations have chosen to support the economic development and marketing efforts of West Chester Township and the West Chester Development Council. West Chester Development
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