Polo Custom Products expanding in Topeka, creating $61M economic impact

Topeka and Shawnee County’s Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) board approved an incentive agreement that will aid in the expansion of Polo Custom Products, a contract manufacturer headquartered in Topeka that designs, engineers and manufactures custom products and components for original equipment manufacturers in the medical, fire and safety, industrial, and government and defense markets.

Previously referred to as “Project Julia,” this expansion is expected to result in an estimated economic impact of $61 million over 10 years, with Polo Custom Products projected to make a $700,000 capital investment. The expansion will create several new full-time jobs with an average salary of $59,000, plus benefits. The company also intends to provide training for up to 60 existing positions, with the goal of improving outcomes for those employees so they may pursue subsequent opportunities for advancement. The performance-based JEDO incentive for this project is up to $98,900, resulting in a 142% return on investment.

“We’re proud to be headquartered in Topeka and look forward to growing our business, giving back to the community each step of the way,” said Kent Lammers, president and CEO of Polo Custom Products. “We’re thankful to JEDO and our wonderful community leaders for helping make this possible.”

“Our expansion here in Topeka and Shawnee County is a testament to how much we believe in this community,” said Alan Frost, vice president of HR and corporate development for Polo Custom Products. “We’re excited to make this investment in our company and in our area’s future by providing new job opportunities and empowering our employees.”

“Helping our community and companies in Shawnee County grow and compete is what JEDO is all about,” said Aaron Mays, JEDO chair. “The expansion of Polo Custom Products will result in tangible returns for our area, and I’m excited to see this business do even more great work in Kansas and beyond.”

“Polo Custom Products is a leader among corporate partners in the Topeka area,” said Molly Howey, president of GO Topeka. “We’re thrilled that they’ve chosen to grow their headquarters here at home, expanding the company’s reach and impact well into the future. Their innovative ideas and approach to business are helping put our community on the map.”