Chattanooga Welcomes iFixit: A New Hub for Repair Enthusiasts!
Chattanooga is buzzing with excitement as iFixit, a company known for its repair manuals, parts, and precision tools, officially opens its new facility in the heart of the city! This innovative move marks the transformation of Chattanooga into the “point of the spear” for iFixit’s operations in the Southeast, according to the company’s CEO, Kyle Wiens.
Making Chattanooga Home
During the grand opening festivities, Wiens revealed that he and co-founder made the big leap from California to Chattanooga, bringing their unique vision of sustainability and repair culture along with them. This relocation is not just to settle into a new city; it’s about starting a journey with Chattanooga at its core. The shiny new distribution and innovation hub is located at 812 E. 12th St., nestled inside a refurbished 60-year-old warehouse.
Mayor Tim Kelly was among the local leaders welcoming the iFixit team and emphasized the exciting potential this new venture brings to the community. “iFixit is a great fit for Chattanooga,” he said to the crowd of around 75 attendees. “I’m very sure this is the first day of a long and fruitful relationship.”
A Growing Team
As part of their ambitious plans, iFixit aims to hire about 200 people over the next five years. So far, about 25 employees have already joined the team to help ramp up operations in the new facility. Luke Soules, iFixit’s chief operating officer, explained that Chattanooga stood out as the best choice among several potential locations during their search.
While places like Memphis with its FedEx facilities initially caught their eye, the company realized Chattanooga offered something special that is attractive to career-oriented individuals. “Is this really a place career people want to move to? Not really,” Soules noted. And here they are in Chattanooga, proving that the city has what it takes!
Challenges and Changes
It’s important to note that while iFixit is setting down roots in Chattanooga, they recently announced layoffs at their offices in California and Germany. However, Wiens reassured everyone that no employees in Tennessee would be affected. The company is currently “rebalancing” due to changes in Google’s search engine results, leading to some uncertainty in one segment of their business. But for those who love fixing things, iFixit is thriving!
Joining the Global Movement
With a mission that encourages fixing instead of tossing things away, iFixit is a champion of sustainability. Wiens noted that one in ten Tennesseans used iFixit to make a repair last month alone! “We’re the hub of a global movement,” he proudly declared to the crowd. Companies like iFixit are at the forefront of pushing back against a culture designed to keep consumers on a treadmill of constant consumption.
The American Dream Alive
The sentiments of growth and opportunity were echoed by local officials, including Sam Wills, who described the new facility as a significant leap from the humble beginnings of the company in a college dorm. He reminisced, “It reminds me of what the American dream is all about,” further solidifying the idea that great things can come from simple origins.
iFixit’s investment in the city also received a boost from a $1 million grant from the state, as part of their commitment to revitalizing local communities. Hamilton County Commissioner Joe Graham expressed enthusiasm about how this investment is benefitting the Onion Bottom area, stating, “It’s our turn. It’s time.”
With these developments, Chattanooga is ready to embrace new opportunities and partnerships that foster a spirit of repair and sustainability. As iFixit settles into its new home, the expectation for innovation in the heart of Tennessee is palpable!
