Overview & Challenge

Binks, which previously operated as Carlisle Fluid Technologies (CFT), is a global manufacturer of systems for the supply and application of sprayed materials. The company needed to consolidate its two Twin Cities locations and integrate two other global locations into one facility to streamline operations, enhance innovation, and support future growth. This new location aims to establish a new U.S. headquarters that would improve employee collaboration, retain workforce talent, and serve as a global center of excellence for control-related products. A key challenge was finding a centrally located site between their two existing Twin Cities production facilities that would also support their unique office, lab, and manufacturing space requirements.

Strategy

Forte Real Estate Partners’ Dan Lofgren and Joe Jetland led the site selection and lease negotiation process for Binks/CFT. The team conducted a thorough market analysis, evaluating over 20 properties in the northern Twin Cities suburbs. The primary criteria included:

• Central location to balance employee commute times
• Flexibility to house office, manufacturing, distribution, and R&D functions
• Modern amenities to support talent retention
• Room for future growth

The new Seven Lakes redevelopment in Shoreview emerged as the ideal solution. Developed by Scannell Properties, the 448,000 sq. ft. industrial development offered state-of-the-art space and a strategic location. Construction began in April 2024 and was completed in early 2025. Binks worked with Forte’s Wally Tufvander to manage the interior renovations and relocation from the other two Twin Cities locations.

Results

CFT secured a long-term lease for 120,000 sq. ft. at Seven Lakes, including:

• 30,000 sq. ft. of office space
• 80,000 sq. ft. for manufacturing and distribution
• 10,000 sq. ft. dedicated to lab and R&D

The new facility will serve as the company’s corporate headquarters and operational hub. It allows CFT to consolidate operations, improve workflow efficiency, and better serve global customers. The move also positions CFT for continued growth while reinforcing its commitment to employee satisfaction through an accessible, modern work environment.