Twist Brite sets up headquarters in Warren to showcase new energy-efficient bulb

On Monday, Trumbull County residents and business owners can celebrate a ribbon cutting with a new family-owned company revolutionizing energy efficiency with light bulbs.

During the holiday season, visitors to Twist Brite will know they’re in the right place in the Huntington Bank Building when they see a Christmas tree decorated with light bulb ornaments.

John McDonald created Twist Brite, an LED dimmable bulb with a built-in switch that goes from 12 to 2 watts with a twist.

He’s hosting a ribbon cutting at noon Dec. 16 with the Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber at 108 Main Ave. SW, Suite 11, in Warren.

What is Twist Brite?

The Twist Brite bulb is 95% more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs, according to McDonald who patented the product.

McDonald has manufactured thousands of these one-of-a-kind dimmable light bulbs, and set up an official headquarters for Twist Brite in the Huntington Bank Building in Warren.

“As founder, I started by outlining the concept on a napkin in January of 2024,” he said. “We eagerly anticipate sharing our experience at the ribbon-cutting event and value your support.”

McDonald dropped off the first batch of dimmable bulbs at Andrews Shopping Center hardware store in Howland on Dec. 2, resulting in his first successful retail sale.

He also sent dimmable bulb samples to E.C. Barton & Company, hoping to soon integrate the bulbs into all Home Outlet locations, which operate 106 locations across 20 states.

“These outlet stores don’t carry any light bulbs and would be a great opportunity to showcase our bulbs without overwhelming customers with choices,” he said.

LED Emergency bulb

In addition to the dimmable bulb available for purchase, McDonald is working on a second type of bulb called the LED Emergency bulb.

“It’s a pioneering product that allows users to effortlessly switch from 110 volts to battery mode by twisting the bulb while it is in the lamp,” McDonald said.

This design switches between electrical and battery modes.

The bulb has “reliable room illumination during power outages and a convenient control over the bulb’s on/off function,” according to McDonald.

“Our goal is to commercially introduce the Twist Brite LED Emergency Bulb with the objective of installing them in hotel and motel rooms to provide customers with a sense of security and comfort during power outages,” he said.

Twist Brite has recently partnered with Ohio APEX Accelerator with the goal of securing a FEMA grant for Emergency Bulbs in the future.

“Additionally, we have joined forces with Brite Energy Innovators to drive substantial growth. To achieve this growth, Twist Brite must now focus on securing necessary funding to expand and scale operations, and accommodate large purchase orders,” he said.