PROtect Set to Relocate Headquarters to Wichita Business Park as New Flagship Tenant

PROtect Relocates Headquarters to Wichita Business Park

In a significant development for Wichita, Kansas, PROtect, a leading national provider of safety and compliance services, has announced its decision to relocate its corporate headquarters and expand its operational facilities to the Wichita Business Park. The move, set to take place in 2026, comes as part of a strategic long-term lease agreement facilitated by Industrial Realty Group, LLC (IRG) and PREP Funds, both recognized players in the commercial real estate sector.

A New Beginning for PROtect

The relocation of PROtect is a noteworthy addition to the city's business landscape as it stands as the fourth largest revenue-generating company in Wichita. The company is planning to consolidate its existing headquarters and operational center into a new, state-of-the-art facility spread across 41,698 square feet. This modernization aims to enhance operational efficiency and kindles a new chapter in PROtect's ongoing growth journey.

Nathan VanderGriend, the CEO of PROtect, expressed enthusiasm about the new location, emphasizing that the Wichita Business Park provides a unique opportunity to create a custom-designed workspace that resonates with the company’s national aspirations. “This location not only supports our ongoing growth but also allows us to play a pivotal role in the revitalization of the area,” he noted, highlighting PROtect's roots in Wichita and its commitment to continued growth at home.

The Evolution of Wichita Business Park

The transition of the Towne West Square Mall into the Wichita Business Park, an expansive 591,893-square-foot multi-tenant campus, is part of a broader redevelopment agenda initiated by IRG and PREP Funds. After acquiring the mall in early 2025, the teams quickly commenced their plans for the transformation, aiming to create a versatile environment that caters to diverse tenants.

Chris Salata, a partner at PREP Funds, noted the strategic fit of PROtect as the flagship tenant, reinforcing that their new facility will exemplify both PROtect's vision and the redevelopment team's aspirations for the site. Detailed planning discussions with PROtect were fundamental in tailoring a space that not only meets operational needs but also fosters efficiency and collaborative growth.

PROtect’s Cutting-Edge Operations

PROtect is not just expanding its physical footprint; the company is also at the forefront of integrating advanced technologies into its operations. Recently, the company announced a partnership with sentin GmbH, a German company that specializes in AI-driven inspection automation. This partnership marks PROtect as the first North American inspection provider to offer comprehensive AI-powered inspections, underscoring its commitment to innovation and compliance in various industries.

With an existing national presence that includes 22 locations and over 750 employees, PROtect’s move to the Wichita Business Park aligns perfectly with its operational strategy. It aims to streamline operations for its diverse clientele, which spans refining, petrochemical, renewable fuels, and food and beverage sectors, among others.

David Friedberg, PROtect's CFO, expressed satisfaction with the development team’s efforts, acknowledging how the partnership enabled the creation of a collaborative space that brings together their corporate headquarters and a major operational office under one roof. This strategic move is expected to enhance efficiency and support PROtect's future growth plans.

Future Prospects and Community Impact

The relocation of PROtect is not only a win for the company but also a positive development for Wichita's business ecosystem. The collaboration between IRG, PREP Funds, and PROtect exemplifies how strategic partnerships can lead to substantial economic benefits. With additional tenants anticipated to join the Wichita Business Park, the project promises to transform the area into a hub for innovation and business activities.

Peter Goffstein, Executive Vice President at IRG, highlighted ongoing discussions with potential tenants, hinting at more announcements to come in regard to the project's growth trajectory. This initiative positions the Wichita Business Park to be a driver of economic revitalization, showcasing the potential that adaptive reuse of existing properties holds.

In conclusion, PROtect's relocation and expansion at the Wichita Business Park is a significant milestone for both the company and the local economy. With continued investment and development by key players like IRG and PREP Funds, Wichita is poised to emerge as a dynamic center for business innovation and growth.