A Winning Edge tries to score in Bloomingdale

A Winning Edge, specializing in custom sports uniforms and school apparel, recently expanded into Bloomingdale.

After spending more than six years operating from his home in Wayne, Mike Caliendo and his son, John, now operate their business from a shop at 185 E. Lake St. The focus is on embroidery, screening and digital printing.

Mike Caliendo said the business grew too large for his home. He was looking for a place with easier access for customers, who often want to see and touch the merchandise. In the past, the owners often worked through the Internet. "We wanted to expand into the Bloomingdale area," Mike said.

The company works with baseball, hockey, football and other sports teams in designing and printing uniforms. Mike added that they work with park districts, high schools, colleges and other youth sports organizations in decorating and coordinating apparel.

The retail store also carries a limited selection of baseball gloves, bat bags, hats and spikes.

With the growing number of athletic teams, there is an increasing demand for uniforms and the gear that goes with them, the owners say. They added that it's important to them that quality and service remain a focus of their business. "The uniforms have to be delivered on time," Mike said.

Mike said his family has always been involved in sports and noticed a growing need for this type of custom service. In addition to sports wear, the company sells polo shirts, medical wear and other kinds of clothing.

Before launching A Winning Edge, Mike owned The Winfield House restaurant for about 15 years. Nearly seven years ago he sold the restaurant to his son, who now operates the Italian-themed establishment that he renamed Caliendo's Restaurant & Sports Bar.

"I wanted to get out of the restaurant business," Mike said. "We saw this as a good opportunity," he added.

The shop is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. For more information, check out awinningedge.com or call (630) 924-7777.

• Kim Mikus covers small business. She welcomes comments at (847) 427-4567 or kmikus@dailyherald.com.