Inked Brands to relocate, expand in Bowling Green with $10.7 million investment

FRANKFORT, Ky. – One local company is expanding in Bowling Green with a $10.7 million investment.

That’s according to an announcement by Gov. Andy Beshear on Thursday.

The governor’s office says Inked Brands is a “rapidly growing diversified consumer product company,” and the investment is expected to result in 20 new jobs.

“Kentucky’s historic economic momentum in recent years has been fueled by companies continuing to reinvest in the communities they call home,” Beshear said. “Anytime a local business expands here in the commonwealth, it is a testament to the quality of work they are doing, their leadership, workforce and support from local and city officials. Inked Brands has operated here in Kentucky for a decade, and this announcement is an exciting next step for the company and the Bowling Green community. I am looking forward to their continued success.”

To keep up with increased production volumes and product line growth, Inked Brands will add square footage with additional room for future expansion. The investment will enable to company to scale operations to meet rising customer demand, support continued diversification of product categories and strengthen its long-term competitiveness and infrastructure to serve purchasers.

The 20 new jobs created from the expansion will bring the company’s statewide employment to over 70.

“We are incredibly excited to bring this opportunity to Bowling Green and continue growing our roots here,” said Victoria Thompson, director of People, AI and business operations at Inked Brands. “This expansion represents more than just an investment in our business – it’s an investment in the community and people of southcentral Kentucky. We are especially grateful for the support and collaboration of our partners at Thrive Ventures as our building developer, along with the city of Bowling Green, Warren County, the state of Kentucky and the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce. Together, we’re creating an environment where innovation, entrepreneurship and community can thrive.”

Inked Brands houses consumers brands, including product design and development, global sourcing, efficient order fulfillment, targeted marketing, customer service and reporting.

As an established leader in stationery, office, crafting and gifts, Inked Brands drives sales across multiple platforms, including ecommerce, mass retail and boutique business-to-business.

According to officials, the company partners directly with skilled manufacturers and artisans worldwide, transforming creative visions into high-quality realities, powering a portfolio of brands, including 1Canoe2, Studio Calico, Callie Danielle, Pippi Post, Paper Farm Press, Church Notes Co., Flashback Supply and many more.

Warren County judge/executive Doug Gorman noted the opportunities this project will bring to the area, stating, “The success of Inked Brands shows what happens when local innovation is paired with long-term commitment to our community. Their growth means new opportunities for families right here in Warren County, and it strengthens our position as a hub for technology and business in Kentucky.”

Bowling Green mayor Todd Alcott highlighted the community impact.

Alcott stated, “Inked Brands is proof that Bowling Green is a place where great ideas and hardworking people can build something extraordinary. This expansion reflects both the strength of our city’s entrepreneurial spirit and the quality of life that attracts and keeps talent here.”

Ron Bunch, president and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the company’s technology leadership.

He stated, “Inked Brands represents exactly the type of technology-driven, innovation-focused business that defines Bowling Green’s future. From their start here to their growth on the national stage, they have consistently shown how a company built in Bowling Green can thrive in today’s digital economy. We are proud to partner with them on this next phase of growth.”

News 40 will provide additional updates on the expansion as they are released.