The Hillman Group’s new multipurpose facility named OEDA Project of the Year
CINCINNATI – The Hillman Group’s new global multi-purpose facility has been named the 2026 Project of the Year by the Ohio Economic Development Association (OEDA), recognizing its significant economic impact, unprecedented collaboration and a transformative redevelopment project for the region.
Expected to be completed by mid-2027, Hillman’s new 715,000-square-foot facility will join its Cincinnati-area distribution and manufacturing operations on approximately 55 acres of the former mall property, creating a centralized hub for the company’s global operations. The remaining 35 acres will be available for future mixed-use development, creating additional opportunities for growth at the site.
“Winning OEDA’s Project of the Year is a tremendous recognition of what can happen when public and private partners come together around a shared vision,” said Kevin Donnelly, vice president of project management at REDI Cincinnati. “This project is significant because it reimagined an existing site, retained a major regional employer and established a strong foundation for future growth.”
“Redevelopment of the former mall site unlocks future growth within Fairfield’s Gilmore Road corridor,” said Fairfield City Manager Scott Timmer. “Hillman Group complements our existing businesses such as Cincinnati Financial, Mercy Health, and Veritiv, strengthening the corridor as an important regional employment district.”
“This distinguished honor recognizes the collective vision, leadership and partnerships behind the transformation of the former Forest Fair Mall site into an award-winning redevelopment project. Hillman’s new multipurpose facility will create new opportunities and support long-term economic growth not only in Forest Park, but also throughout the surrounding region,” said Forest Park Mayor Rosalind Moore.
“This project is an important part of Forest Park’s larger strategy for growth,” said Forest Park City Manager Don Jones. “We are focused on strengthening our business community and creating opportunities that position Forest Park for long-term economic success.”
The redevelopment vision came to fruition through a collaborative partnership between Hillwood Development, the City of Forest Park, the City of Fairfield, JobsOhio, REDI Cincinnati, the Butler County Land Bank, and the Ohio Department of Development. The project crosses the boundaries of Hamilton and Butler Counties and three school districts — Fairfield, Northwest, and Winton Woods.
Hillman, established in 1964, is a leading provider of hardware and home improvement products.
About REDI Cincinnati
The Regional Economic Development Initiative (REDI) Cincinnati is the first point-of-contact for companies locating or growing in the 15-county region at the heart of southwest Ohio, northern Kentucky, and southeast Indiana. REDI Cincinnati is supported by top business leaders and community partners and staffed by a team of economic development experts who are uniting the Cincinnati region to compete globally.
The future is bright, and we’re building it, right now. Join us at REDICincinnati.com.