OZ Lifting Products LLC officially opened its new facility in Winona, Minnesota, on Oct. 7, welcoming dignitaries, guests and members of the media for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided tours.
The event drew a large crowd outside the company’s new building on Innovation Drive. Scott Sherman, Mayor of Winona, joined Steve Napieralski, president of OZ Lifting; his wife, Jane; and representatives of the Winona Area Chamber of Commerce for the ceremony. Other attendees included Christie Ransom, chamber president; Jeremy Miller, Minnesota State Senator; as well as staff, family and industry media from the U.S. and U.K. Guests toured the facility and enjoyed lunch from local vendor Chef’s Table.
“It was incredible to see so many people come out to celebrate this milestone with us, from media and partners across the U.S. and UK, to vendors, distributors, friends, family, and our local community here in Winona,” said Napieralski. “When I started OZ Lifting Products as a small, family-owned business 20 years ago, I never imagined the scale of what we’d build together, yet we’ve held onto those same small-business values every step of the way. The support and excitement around our grand opening really reflect how far we’ve come, and we’re looking forward to continuing that momentum as we grow into the future.”
The new 40,000-square-foot facility is four times larger than OZ Lifting’s previous location, providing expanded production, warehousing and innovation space. Founded in December 2004 with two employees, the company now employs 30 full-time staff and serves a global distributor network. The new site sits on a five-acre lot designed to accommodate future expansion and marks the fourth relocation in the company’s history.
During the event, visitors viewed a range of OZ Lifting products, including davit cranes, hoists, clamps, trolleys and winches. The company’s recent innovations include the 250-pound capacity parapet davit crane base, designed for temporary rooftop installation without surface damage, and the Tele-Pro davit crane, which allows users to telescope the boom under load. Another highlight was the Alumi-Lite davit crane, made from lightweight aerospace-grade aluminum for easier handling and transport without sacrificing durability.
Also in attendance was Trace Erickson, a former law enforcement officer who trains service dogs through the Code Blue K9 program, supported by OZ Lifting.
The opening marks a significant milestone in the company’s continued investment in innovation, safety and growth within the global lifting equipment market.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
