Les Wexner, the former head of L Brands who recently stepped down amidst scrutiny over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, has quietly orchestrated one of the biggest semiconductor projects in history. In 2021, residents in Johnstown, Ohio were approached by the New Albany Company, owned by Wexner, to option their properties for Intel’s semiconductor factories. Wexner’s firm secured the land for Intel, beating out bids from 38 other sites, resulting in Ohio’s largest private sector deal. This project has attracted other tech giants like Amazon and Google to invest billions in the area, raising property values and spurring economic growth.
While Wexner’s reputation may have been tarnished by his association with Epstein, his role in revitalizing Ohio’s economy is undeniable. Through the New Albany Company, Wexner owns vast land holdings valued at nearly $700 million and has been instrumental in transforming the region for high-tech development. Wexner’s influence extends beyond business, as he has made significant contributions to Ohio State University and chaired the Columbus Partnership, a group focused on economic development. Despite his low profile in recent years, Wexner’s impact on Ohio’s future is profound, with plans for further expansion and development in the region.
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