Rawlings Sporting Goods Company, Inc., the official baseball, glove, helmet, face guard and base of Major League Baseball® and the creator of the iconic Rawlings Gold Glove Award®, announced they will be moving from their current corporate headquarters located in Town & Country, MO to Westport Plaza in Maryland Heights, MO in late 2023. The decision to relocate was predicated by the need for additional office space and a desire to create a full corporate campus including an experiential retail destination. Rawlings has been based in St. Louis since its inception in 1887 and hopes to elevate its visibility as a St. Louis-based company.
“Our move to Westport Plaza reflects the tremendous growth of our baseball and softball business and allows us to create an immersive brand experience for fans and athletes alike,” said Mike Zlaket, chief executive officer of Rawlings. “As a storied brand based in St. Louis, Rawlings has very strong ties to the local community, and it was important for us to remain here in such a renowned baseball town.”
The move coincides with significant revitalization plans taking place in Westport Plaza designed to attract new business tenants.
“Rawlings is the perfect fit for Westport Plaza as they’ll provide a unique experience for the millions of avid baseball fans both visiting and living in St. Louis,” said Bob O’Loughlin, chairman and CEO of Lodging Hospitality Management, the owners of Westport Plaza. “We are proud to partner with Rawlings as they incorporate their 135-year legacy into their new headquarters while building the future of their business.
Within Rawlings’’expanded experiential retail space, their full assortment of baseball and softball product lines will be displayed and available for purchase as well as a wide array of customizable options across multiple product lines.
Additionally, the brand will highlight historic artifacts that have been integral to their success and growth throughout the years. Commemorative baseballs honoring special moments in the game, including the recent milestones of Aaron Judge’s 62 homeruns in a single season, and Albert Pujols’ 700 career homeruns, will adorn the space in creative fashion alongside a comprehensive history wall.
Another key highlight will be ‘the glove vault’ which will showcase Rawlings’ strength in the glove category with Rawlings Gold Glove Awards on display and an interactive custom glove center for visitors to design their own model.
This unparalleled and immersive experience will be designed to encourage repeat visits from local fans, while creating a must-see destination for those traveling to St. Louis.
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