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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Wolverine Worldwide Expands Rockford, Michigan, Operations

05/26/2025
Wolverine Worldwide, Inc., a running shoe brand, plans to expand its operations in Rockford, Michigan. The approximately $9 million project is expected to create up to 100 jobs in Kent County.

The investment at the company’s existing global headquarters will include a newly renovated space called The Factory, which will be the new home to its two largest brands, Merrell and Saucony.

“Wolverine Worldwide was founded in West Michigan in 1883, and – while our products are sold around the world today, – we couldn’t be more proud to call Rockford our hometown,” said Chris Hufnagel, President & Chief Executive Officer of Wolverine Worldwide. “We value our partnership with the State of Michigan and are very grateful for its support as we innovate and modernize our global headquarters. This important renovation will allow us to attract world-class talent to West Michigan and help create an amazing place to work for our teams – all in pursuit of creating products and experiences that make our consumers’ lives better.”

The project is being supported by a $1 million Michigan Business Development Program grant.

“I am excited that Wolverine Worldwide is showing its confidence in the Grand Rapids area with this expansion,” noted Eric Icard, Senior Director of Business Development at The Right Place. “While the company operates on a global scale, Rockford has been its home for over 140 years. This investment in its corporate headquarters reflects our region's capacity to grow and attract top-level talent."

Wolverine Worldwide is a footwear company known for its portfolio of brands, including Merrell, Saucony, Sperry, and Wolverine. The company markets products in approximately 200 countries and territories, focusing on footwear, apparel, and accessories.

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