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FaB Wisconsin's 2025 Annual Report

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Annual Report 2025

Letter From TheExecutiveDirector

Happy2026,FaBMembership!

After almost 15 years of growth, FaB has evolved from a regional vision into a powerful statewide network for Wisconsin’s food and beverage industry. As we look to the future and celebrate all things FaB in 2025, I want to take a moment to thank you for your support. Without you, our members, we would not be the organization we are today, nor would we be as successful. Your commitment to FaB is sincerely appreciated.

2025 was another year of robust growth, visibility, and regional success for FaB, reinforcing our position as Wisconsin’s leading food and beverage network. Throughout the year, FaB provided members with valuable resources, including best practices, industry insights, and networking opportunities. We hosted numerous industry briefings, webinars, and social events that offered education, collaboration, and meaningful connections. More than 500 food and beverage professionals from our member companies attended these events to share their knowledge and network with peers.

FaB’s ongoing success underscores our role in shaping the future of Wisconsin’s food and beverage industry by driving workforce development, advocating for food and beverage businesses, and fostering innovation. As a member, you are part of a network that works together to address industry challenges and opportunities, making Wisconsin an ideal place to grow a food and beverage business and career.

As we move forward, we invite you to engage, connect, and champion Wisconsin’s food and beverage industry with us. FaB will continue expanding our member network, increasing statewide participation from food and beverage companies. We will keep facilitating member collaboration and business connections, strengthen FaB’s legislative outreach, and further elevate FaB as the leading voice for Wisconsin’s food and beverage sector.

Thank you for being part of FaB Wisconsin. Together, we are driving innovation, growth, and sustainability, ensuring Wisconsin remains a leader in food and beverage for years to come.

We’re FaB Wisconsin, and weknowthisindustrywell.

From bakers to banks, we’re here to support and advocate for your business. For almost 15 years, we’ve been working to optimize Wisconsin’s industry ecosystem and its workforce for innovation and growth, connecting you with best practices, know-how, and resources that assist with growth plans and goal achievement.

Our state’s industry know-how, expertise, and experience is reflected in our member companies and organizations and in the thousands of those who bring the world Wisconsin’s food and drink.

Local and global. Big and small. Nutrient-dense and decadence. We’re here for the food and beverage makers, manufacturers, distributors, and all of those who support and supply the industry. We’re working to make our state the best place to grow your food and beverage industry business.

We were proud to serve 142 member companies in 2025.

Whether you’re manufacturing, distributing, or providing services to the industry, we’re grateful for your participation and the opportunity to serve.

19

We were excited to welcome 19 new members in 2025, helping us broaden our presence throughout the state.

2,300

longtime member, thank you! Your involvement makes our industry network stronger.

$198k

Training (WAT) Grant awarded to FaB, members were able to cut company training costs in a big way.

100%

programs like the FaBsafe Certificate® make our work possible.

Building a Dynamic Industry Network: FaB’sLeadershipCouncil

The FaB Leadership Council, made up of food and beverage industry leaders, brings valuable experience and perspective to the table. Throughout the year, they help guide our efforts by sharing insights and shaping strategies that strengthen industry knowledge and foster collaboration. Council members’ involvement ensures we stay focused on innovation and growth while supporting the goals of both FaB and their own organizations.

MattWessel Milwaukee Pretzel Co.
MilissaRick Regal Ware
JohnVeidt HARIBO of America
SamKrieg Central Storage & Warehouse LLC
PaulBenson Michael Best
SteveWallace Omanhene Cocoa Bean Co.
PeterGottsacker Wixon
KathyKoshgarian Food For Health
CraigBriess Briess Malt & Ingredients
TomBenner Lesaffre Red Star Yeast
TheisBacher Novonesis
StephanieSobczak Eurofins
AlanGoodman A Goodman’s Desserts
AndyGehl Third Space Brewing
ShaneLauterbach Lauterbach Group
WadeUhlenbrauck Miron Construction
AnneCookson Crustology
GiacomoFallucca Palermo’s Pizza COUNCIL CHAIR
MichaelGraft RSM US LLP
JeffGentine Masters Gallery Foods
EricOlesen O&H Danish Bakery
BrianDurst Tribe 9 Foods
PattyLehn Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center
KimWall Baensch Food Products

Quick Bites withLongtimeMembers

Canyoutellusaboutyourcompany?

“Saz’s Hospitality Group is a Milwaukee staple with a legacy rooted in ‘The Finest’ food and service. Founded in 1976, the group is anchored by its flagship restaurant, Saz’s State House, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. While many first came to know Saz's through our award-winning ribs, signature BBQ retail line, and the festival famous combo platters, we have evolved significantly over the last five decades. Today, that foundation of quality has expanded into the world of fine dining and elegant celebrations. We operate two premier event venues: South Second in Walker’s Point and Jan Serr Studio on the East Side, where we deliver sophisticated, high-end hospitality. Alongside our highvolume off-site catering and pick-up services, Saz’s has grown from a local neighborhood favorite into a versatile industry leader.”

WhydidyoujoinFaB?

“We were first introduced to FaB through Sysco and attended our first event a luncheon in November 2018 where the keynote speaker was Rick LaBerge, COO of Haribo. It was fascinating to see so many top professionals in the food and beverage industry in one room (and we can’t forget the free gummy bears!). From that experience, it was clear that FaB offered invaluable insights, connections, and perspectives that we wanted to be part of.”

WhyisbeingpartoftheFaBnetworkimportanttoyou?

“Being part of FaB is important because it provides ongoing opportunities to connect with leaders across the food and beverage industry. During the pandemic, FaB’s webinars and shared resources kept us informed and helped us navigate a challenging time something we truly valued. The network makes it easy to exchange ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and meet people we might never have connected with otherwise, which continues to be a huge asset for Saz’s.”

Quick Bites withLongtimeMembers

Canyoutellusaboutyourcompany?

“Central Storage & Warehouse (CSW) is a Wisconsin-based cold storage operator serving food and beverage manufacturers, processors, and distributors. We specialize in temperature-controlled warehousing, blast freezing, and value-added services designed to protect product integrity and streamline supply chains. With a focus on reliability, food safety, and long-term partnerships, CSW helps customers scale efficiently while navigating the operational and regulatory complexities of the cold chain.”

WhydidyoujoinFaB?

“CSW joined FaB to deepen our connection to Wisconsin’s food and beverage community and stay closely aligned with the needs of local producers and manufacturers. FaB provides a strong platform for collaboration, shared learning, and advocacy across the industry. As a logistics partner embedded in our customers’ supply chains, we see real value in engaging with customers and peers to better understand emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities across the food and beverage ecosystem.”

WhyisbeingpartoftheFaBnetworkimportanttoyou?

“Being part of the FaB network allows CSW to actively participate in the growth and resilience of Wisconsin’s food and beverage industry. The network fosters meaningful relationships, practical knowledge-sharing, and a collective voice on issues that matter to our customers. For us, FaB is not just about networking it’s about collaboration, staying ahead of industry change, and supporting a strong, interconnected regional food supply chain.”

With Gratitude for Our ChoiceLevelMembers

Our Choice members are dedicated partners who invest in FaB and help power our mission to strengthen Wisconsin’s food and beverage industry. Their support fuels the programs, connections, and industry resources that move our shared vision forward. In return, they enjoy expanded member benefits that elevate their visibility, deepen their engagement, and enhance the value they receive from being part of our network. We’re truly grateful for their investment, leadership, and commitment to growing a vibrant, innovative, and collaborative industry community.

Carbliss is a premium ready-to-drink cocktail brand designed for those who want bold flavor without the carbs or sugar. Crafted with real spirits, zero carbs, zero sugar, and only 100 calories per can, Carbliss delivers clean, refreshing cocktails you can enjoy anytime. With vodka and tequila-based varieties and bright, fruit-forward flavors, Carbliss offers smooth, crisp taste and guilt-free sipping. Gluten-free and packed with vibrant flavor, Carbliss proves you don’t have to choose between better-for-you ingredients and bigtime taste.

Explore the wonders of Wisconsin agriculture at Farm Wisconsin. Named one of USA Today’s Best New Attractions of 2018 and among Time for Kids’ 50 Coolest Places, the discovery center engages visitors along food’s journey from field to fork, while the birthing barn offers a chance to witness a live calf birth. The facility also features special events, and boasts a conference center, a farm-totable café, and farm house store. Visit our website for details.

Nothing beats Crustology®. We specialize in a Midwestern cracker crust a thin pizza crust like you’ve never had before. Available in a variety of different flavors, we’ve got a crust to fit every type of topping, from our classic The OG to the well-seasoned Herb-Infused.

Founded in 1890, Findorff is an employeeowned, Wisconsin-based construction company. Across industries, Findorff delivers award-winning craftsmanship to projects of all sizes and was recognized as 2025 Builder of the Year. Beyond construction, Findorff is dedicated to positively impacting our people, clients, and community. We are driven to make a difference in the state we call home.

Food For Health is a 501c3 public charity and Community Based Organization focused on preventing, managing & reversing disease with a delicious, people-centered medically tailored meal program for our most vulnerable populations. As the only Medically Tailored Meal (MTM) provider in the state of Wisconsin, we’ve joined forces with other like-minded organizations across the nation as part of the Food Is Medicine Coalition (FIMC) to realize our vision of creating equitable access to healthy and happy lives through the power of food.

Rooted in family values, Lauterbach Group has grown from a stock label and tag supplier into a premier packaging partner. We deliver a full range of solutions pressure-sensitive labels, shrink sleeves, flexible pouches, stock items, and custom products backed by uncompromising expertise. Our team brings a personal, collaborative approach to every project, simplifying your workload while elevating your brand. Powered by our OmniMark platform and a commitment to continual improvement, we deliver fast, seamless, high-quality results.

Sometimes you need more than an ingredient – you need a solution. Formula changes. New product ideation. Production issues. Through it all, we help you get quickly from line to shelf. Across the span of almost 200 years, we have grown from offering the finest in yeast to serving as one of the largest ingredient suppliers in commercial baking. Rise to the top with Lesaffre.

Founded in 2013 by Katie and Matt Wessel after spending a year in Munich, Germany, Milwaukee Pretzel Company handcrafts authentic Bavarian soft pretzel twists, bites and buns using a traditional German recipe and a whole lotta love - and no preservatives! Our mission is simple: To bring the pretzels we fell in love with in Germany to all of you. Find us in bars & restaurants, grocery stores, community fundraisers and order online at milwaukeepretzel.com!

For 76 years, the Olesen family has continued to use the traditional methods of Old Denmark to make our Kringle. Each Kringle takes 3 days to make, resulting in 36 delicate layers for a truly flaky and flavorful pastry. Combine our scratch made fillings from the finest ingredients we can find, you are certain to find a flavor suited just for you.

The Omanhene Cocoa Bean Company is producing world class chocolate entirely in Ghana using the finest cocoa in the world: customers love trying the “chocolatiest” milk chocolate. The word “Omanhene” (oh-mahnhee-nee) comes from the Twi language and is the title for the traditional king or chief, the repository of ethical and moral authority in Ghana.

Rishi Tea was founded on the commitment to set the standard for quality and expand the awareness of exceptional tea and its rich, inspirational tradition. We offer premium tea and botanicals imported directly from growers across the world and draw inspiration from ancient artisanal practices that use organic cultivation techniques as well as modern culinary innovation.

Top Tier Ingredients is a potato flake and flour manufacturer centrally located in Hancock, Wisconsin. Our state-of-the-art facility integrates the newest sustainability and technology practices to meet growing customer needs. Boasting a legacy that spans multiple generations in the potato industry, our ownership team, including our collaboration with Heartland Farms, Inc., brings a wealth of experience and expertise. This rich heritage forms the foundation of our daily innovations, driving us to consistently deliver the highest quality products.

It starts with great beer and a moment in time, spent among those whose company you love, with nowhere else to be. It’s beer brewed by a world-class brewmaster and his longtime friend. It’s Milwaukee made and Wisconsin proud. But most importantly, it’s permission to pause and enjoy a great beer with great company. You have your home, you have your work, but everyone needs a third space.

Tribe 9 Foods is a specialty food manufacturer headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, founded in February 2017 to create delicious, nourishing, and functional foods that improve lives. Formed by uniting three fast-growing companies, Tribe 9 Foods was built on the belief that together we can do more develop more nutritious products, create great local jobs, strengthen our communities, and demonstrate responsible, sustainable food manufacturing.

Fortune Favors Scales withNationalDeal

FortuneFavorsishavingabreakoutyear.

Celebrated for its addictive candied pecans, the company, founded in 2018, recently landed its biggest retail partnership yet, securing shelf space in more than 1,400 Publix supermarkets across the southeastern U.S. The rapid expansion has prompted a second production shift at its Cottage Grove facility, where every batch of pecans is still handmade.

Led by CEO Sam McDaniel, COO Jess Benish, and founder and award-winning chef Eric Rupert, the company has scaled rapidly without compromising on quality or culture.

The Publix deal is a milestone that came faster than expected. “We’re going to sell more nuts to Publix in six weeks than we sold in all of 2018,” said McDaniel, noting that sales to the Floridabased retailer will exceed the company’s early-year projections. Already on a strong growth path thanks to loyal customers and wholesale relationships, Fortune Favors accelerated further with the Publix deal. The company is now exploring broader national opportunities.

As Fortune Favors pursues national growth, its roots remain embedded in Wisconsin. The company manufactures all its products in-house, uses premium U.S.-grown pecans, and maintains a strong commitment to employee well-being. Workers earn an average wage more than 50% above typical manufacturing rates in southern Wisconsin. The leadership team describes job quality as their “most important product,” and contract workers brought on for the Publix rollout receive the same pay and respect as full-time staff.

Lardinois, MKE Startup News

This emphasis on creating dignified, sustainable jobs stems from the founders’ past experiences. “We came from a place where not all jobs were built for people to thrive long term,” said Benish. “We wanted to build something different something that supports the whole person.”

That intentional approach includes health insurance for full-time employees, paid time off, bereavement leave (including pets), and flexible scheduling that respects personal and family needs. As a result, the company boasts high employee retention rates.

Long-term employees remain a strategic strength. While many food brands outsource production, Fortune Favors has always made its products inhouse. The model gave them resilience during the pandemic and remains key to quality control and community engagement.

In recognition of their entrepreneurial success, Fortune Favors’ leadership team was named Wisconsin’s 2024 Small Business Persons of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The award honored McDaniel, Benish, and Rupert for their rapid growth and community impact.

Even as it scales, Fortune Favors continues to contribute to Wisconsin’s broader entrepreneurial ecosystem. McDaniel and Benish both serve on the board of Naturally Wisconsin, an organization supporting natural food manufacturers throughout the state. Their hope is that Fortune Favors’ national success can help spotlight the untapped potential of Wisconsin’s food innovation scene.

With eyes on further expansion, a potential factory store in Cottage Grove, and continued investment in staff and operations, the team is clear about what won’t change. “No matter how big we get,” said McDaniel, “our values stay the same. We’re committed to good food, good jobs, and being a good part of our community.”

Nomatterhow bigweget,our valuesstaythe same.We’re committedto goodfood, goodjobs,and beingagood partofour community.”

Thanks to Our 2025Members

We’re the food and beverage makers and manufacturers and all of those who support and supply the industry. Local to global. Big to small. Nutrient-dense to decadence. From farm to factory to fork with operations in Wisconsin.

A Goodmans' Desserts*

Actalent

ADP

Aerotek

Altura Design

American Pasteurization Co.

Baensch Food Products Co.

Baker's Quality

BDO USA

Belmark

Biospringer North America

Boelter + Lincoln

Bowie Consulting

Briess Malt & Ingredients Co.

Broken Bat Brewery

Burke Candy & Ingredients

Butter Buds Food Ingredients

Carbliss*

Catapult Commercialization Services

Central Storage & Warehouse Co.

Colliers

C.O.nxt

Consolidated Construction Co.

Craft Beverage Warehouse

Create-a-Pack Foods

Crustology*

Culver Brand Design

Dairyland Ginseng

Denali Ingredients

Didion Milling

Doig Corp.

Doral

Drink ZYN

East Shore Specialty Foods

Emmanuel's Mix

Employ Milwaukee

Engauge Workforce Solutions

Eurofins

Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center*

Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin

Findorff*

First Citizens Bank

Foley & Lardner

Food for Health*

Food Tech, Inc.

Forage Kombucha

Fortune Favors

Frederick Packaging

Fresh Is Best

Funky Fresh Spring Rolls

Galloway Co.

Garden-Fresh Foods

Gehl Foods

General Mills

Good Foods Group

GOpak

Gott Pet Food

GRAEF

Grebe's Bakery

HARIBO of America

Harrigan Sanitation Solutions

HGA Architects & Engineers

Hollander Chocolate

Jefferson County Economic Dev./ThriveED

Interestedinupgradingyourmembership orlearningmoreaboutyourfellowmembers?

JF Ahern Co.

Johnsonville Sausage

JP Cullen

JPMorgan Chase

Keller, Inc.

King Juice Co. Krier Beverage

Krones

Lakefront Brewery

Lakeland University

Landmark Credit Union

Lauterbach Group*

Lesaffre Red Star Yeast*

Lineage

Lotza

LTL Service, Inc.

Manpower Group

Manuscrito Tequila

Masters Gallery Foods

Masterson Co.

MATC

Matrix Packaging Machinery

Michael Best & Friedrich

Midwest Agave Spirits

Milwaukee Pretzel Co.*

MilwaukeeWarehouse

Miron Construction

Molson Coors

Mount Mary University

MRA

Novonesis

O&H Danish Bakery*

Ocean Spray

Olympia Granola

One Source Staffing

Opportunities, Inc.

Orange & Fifth

Palermo's Pizza

Parallel Employment Group

Plethora Trading LLC

Pro Smoker Smokehouse

PS Seasoning

Rally Energy

Rapido Talent

Real Food Brands

Rebel Green

Regal Holdings

RELY Contract Manufacturing

Reynold's Pasty Shop

Rishi Tea*

Roehl Corp.

RSM US LLP

Sargento Foods

Saz's Hospitality Group

SITE Staffing

Source Wurx

Stella & Chewy’s

Supper Club Fine Foods

The Great Plate

The Omanhene Cocoa Bean Co.*

The Water Council

Third Space Brewing*

Third Wave Bioactives

Top Tier Ingredients*

Tribe 9 Foods*

Tweet/Garot

Tyler's Protein Popcorn

Valentine Coffee Roasters

Vanguard Renewables

Veritiv

Waukesha State Bank

WDS Construction

West Bend Company

WI Center for Manufacturing & Productivity

Wisconsin DATCP

Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.

Wixon

WMEP Manufacturing Solutions

WWBIC

Member Webinar

FoodSafetyForward:Preparingfor

Tomorrow’sRegulatoryLandscape

January23,2025

Featuring Douglas Marshall, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer at Eurofins

We were pleased to host a webinar with Douglas Marshall, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer at Eurofins, who shared timely regulatory and food safety updates with our members. He covered a wide range of topics including heavy metals and lead, certified artificial and natural colors, traceability and FSMA updates, allergens, acidified foods, hazardous chemicals, PFAS, and new FDA and USDA guidance, along with labeling reminders.

Thank you, Dr. Marshall, for sharing your expertise and keeping our community informed!

ExclusiveDiscounton FoodTestingforFaB WisconsinMembers

Take advantage of the exclusive FaB WisconsinEurofins Partnership group discount to receive up to 25% off select testing services from Eurofins.

Eurofins is the world leader in its field, providing a portfolio of over 200,000 reliable analytical methods for characterizing the safety,identity, purity, composition,authenticity, and origin of products and biological substances to the food, pet food, and dietary supplements industry.

New Berlin, WI52151 Micro-MKE@ft.eurofinsus.com 262-727-6006

The dedicated Eurofins team in NewBerlin, WI is readyto help FaBmembers reach their food safety and quality goalseverstep of the way. Eurofins' close proximity and flexiblestaffing mean in-personconsultations on short notice and teleconferencingsessionsat your convenience.Whateverthe need,Eurofins is here for you!

Learn More & Take Advantageofthe FaB-EurofinsPartnership Discount

Midwest Agave BetsonCraftTequila

BeermayhavemadeMilwaukeefamous,butincreasinglyresidents areturningtospiritswhentheychoosetodrink.

Consumption of distilled spirits in Wisconsin climbed 32 percent over the past decade, mirroring a national shift toward premium and craft offerings.

While vodka and rum remain perennial favorites, tequila has emerged as one of the fastestgrowing spirit categories. Between about 2003 and 2023, U.S. tequila sales volumes rose roughly 294 percent. Despite tequila’s rowdy reputation, its new fans are choosing a refined experience, favoring aged styles and additive-free or small-batch products, treating tequila as a sipping spirit.

Milwaukee-based Midwest Agave, founded in 2023, is betting that the state’s strong drinking culture is ready to embrace tequila in a new way. The company is the owner of Manuscrito Tequila, a craft tequila produced in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, and now sold in liquor stores and restaurants across the state.

BuildingatequilacompanyfromWisconsin

Midwest Agave was founded by Jacob Taylor, CEO, alongside co-founders Michael Bogard, CFO, and Chad Pizur, COO. Taylor recalls the idea to launch the company took shape as he began to explore the nuances of tequila.

“I started learning that tequila could be a very complex spirit,” Taylor said. “There’s a lot of craftsmanship and history behind it that people don’t always associate with tequila, especially here in Wisconsin.”

Anna Lardinois, MKE Startup News

As the group researched the market, they noticed many of the additive-free, small-batch tequilas gaining traction nationally were difficult to find in Milwaukee. At the same time, Wisconsin’s shelves were dominated by globally known but industrialized brands.

“That gap stood out to us,” Taylor said. “We saw an opportunity to bring a high-quality, craft tequila to Wisconsin and build a brand around transparency and storytelling.”

From

concepttoproduction

The creation of tequila is governed by Mexican law. Only liquor made from the Blue Weber Agave grown in authorized areas and following strict production standards can be called tequila. Within the classification, there are subsets based on the percentage of agave sweetener used and the aging time and technique.

The company worked with a Jalisco-based master distiller to develop Manuscrito’s taste and production profile, emphasizing traditional methods such as brick ovens and copper pot distillation.

Midwest Agave launched its first two expressions in mid-2025: a blanco tequila and a high-proof blanco. Additional expressions, including reposado varieties, are expected later this year.

Rather than emphasizing batch numbers, the brand leans into a narrative approach. Manuscrito, which translates to “manuscript” in Spanish, frames each release as a chapter in an ongoing story, with individual batches labeled as pages within that chapter.

“We wanted the brand to reflect the idea that every bottle has a story behind it,” Taylor said. “And that the person drinking it brings their own story to the table as well.”

FindingaplaceintheWisconsinmarket

Although tequila is not traditionally associated with Wisconsin, Midwest Agave believes the state’s strong spirits culture makes it fertile ground for growth. Manuscrito is now available at major retailers including Sendik’s, Pick ’n Save, Woodman’s, and Otto’s Liquor, as well as select restaurants and cocktail bars in the Milwaukee area.

The company is also beginning to expand beyond Wisconsin, with distribution in several additional states and plans to enter more markets as production scales.

“Our goal is to become Wisconsin’s tequila,” Taylor said. “We want to build that recognition here first, then grow outward.”

Agrowingcategory,locallyowned

As spirits consumption continues to evolve and tequila’s popularity rises nationwide, Midwest Agave is positioning itself at the intersection of national trends and local ownership. In a state better known for beer and brandy, the company is helping to introduce tequila into that conversation.

As Wisconsin drinkers emerge from Dry January eager to mindfully reintroduce alcohol into their lives, Midwest Agave hopes Manuscrito becomes part of their 2026 stories.

Ourgoalistobecome Wisconsin’stequila.We wanttobuildthat recognitionherefirst, thengrowoutward.”

Are You Taking Advantage of YourMembershipBenefits?

Take advantage of our signature benefits to keep you and your business engaged, connected, and growing. A FaB membership is company-wide and covers all your employees, making these benefits available to you and your entire team.

AccessToMembers-OnlyEvents

Webinars

As important and timely subjects are identified, we respond with events featuring industry experts. Stay current and on top of your game with webinars for talent attraction and retention, food safety, scaling your business, supply chain, and more.

In-PersonEvents

Learn from industry experts, get inspired by notable industry professionals, and network with your industry peers at our inperson events.

Farm-Factory-Fork CareerDiscovery

Inspire the next generation of talent into the career-making possibilities of our food and beverage industry by becoming an exhibitor at this annual event. Member companies network with high school students, providing interactive discovery activities for valuable hands-on learning.

EngagementOpportunities

InsightNetwork

Looking for best practices, resources, and mentoring? Looking to share your industry experience? Submit your question to be answered by our network, or become an Advisor yourself and help your peers.

LeadershipCouncil

Our Leadership Council works to develop deeper industry intelligence and build a dynamic industry network for innovation, growth, collaboration, and support.

SurveyParticipation

Take part in and get exclusive access to the results of our surveys, providing you with industry insights, wage data, and more.

FaBsafeCertificate®

Created by FaB Wisconsin, the FaBsafe Certificate® is a renewable basic food safety training certificate covering the basics of GMPs, HACCP, personal hygiene, and preventive controls.

DiscountsForYourBusiness

LabTestingDiscounts

Take advantage of the FaB Wisconsin-Eurofins partnership group discount to receive up to 25% off select microbiology and chemistry testing services from Eurofins.

UHCLevelFundedHealthcarePlans

For small businesses seeking a more affordable health plan and more options for employees, members get access to the MMAC’s UHC Level Funded healthcare plans, which can include medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and critical illness.

401(k)PooledPlan

Looking to offer a retirement plan with fewer administrative and fiduciary hassles? Take advantage of the Spectrum Pathway Group 401(k) Plan, a pooled employer plan courtesy of Spectrum Investment Advisors offering simplified administration, reduced fiduciary responsibilities, shared plan costs, and plan design flexibility.

AdditionalSavings

Save on office supplies, copy and print orders, Dell equipment and technologies, and FedEx shipping rates.

Visibility&LogoPromotion

LogoVisibility

Display your company logo on our member listing. If you’d like elevated visibility, consider a Select or Premium member upgrade.

IndustryCalendar

Advertise your food and beverage-related events, webinars, and networking opportunities.

HolidayGiftGuideInclusion

Have CPGs or merchandise items perfect for holiday giving? Every December, share your giftable item in our signature digital publication.

AdditionalBenefitsForChoice, Select&PremiumMembers

Choice, Select, and Premium-level members get boosted benefits including logo or ad space in our Annual Report, Leadership Council representation (for food and beverage companies), and more!

Takeacloserlookatyourbenefits in

Harrigan Sanitation Solutions: BuildingEngagementThrough ContinuousImprovement

Engagementisn’tabuzzword–it’sastrategicleverforretentionand profitability.

In food and beverage manufacturing, where compliance and cleanliness are nonnegotiable, success depends not just on systems and procedures but on the people behind them.

Harrigan Sanitation Solutions builds its model around that reality, combining a Continuous Improvement (Kaizen) approach with practices that keep employees connected to their work and to each other.

At Harrigan, sanitation teams operate much like a pit crew in a race: their speed, accuracy, and teamwork help ensure production lines start on time and, over time, start even earlier. When employees are genuinely engaged, they contribute to faster, more effective sanitation that expands available production hours and improves overall profitability.

That same engagement model drives retention. Harrigan works to create an “I belong here” experience in which each crew member is known, supported, and valued for their specific strengths.

As one crew member recently shared: “Honestly, I found my first 90 days at Harrigan enlightening. I have never felt so appreciated and wanted as an employee like I do with this experience. The onboarding process painted a great picture of what the goal is for all of us at Harrigan Sanitation Solutions. I can see with my own eyes that this is a sensible and understanding

Wisconsin

environment that really wants me to succeed. I truly love that the direction and way things are done are so in line with the way I think and feel as well.“

Harrigan’s engagement framework centers on communication, coaching, and accountability. Tools like the Spotter Card – used to structure seven-step conversations between on-floor leaders and crew members – and the Personal Vision of Success (PVS), which helps employees articulate both personal and professional goals, provide consistent structure. For many employees, that clarity translates to meaningful progress.

Erick, for example, joined Harrigan seeking longterm stability. Through the PVS process, he achieved a major personal milestone within eight months: purchasing land in Colombia to build a home. “My family and I are very grateful,” he said. “Thanks to this opportunity and my performance, I’ve been able to fulfill part of one of my goals.”

Research reinforces the impact of engagement on business outcomes. Gallup reports that highly engaged teams see 63% fewer safety incidents and 23% higher profitability. Harrigan’s leadership practices support those outcomes by emphasizing a few consistent behaviors:

• Recognize contributions and build confidence early

• Explain the “why” behind every process

• Communicate clearly and consistently

• Empower employees to take ownership of their roles

Partner facilities continue to see measurable gains, from faster startups and cleaner equipment to reductions in rework and more stable audits. As Mike Sipple, VP of Operations at Agropur Incorporated, shared: “Harrigan’s approach spilled over to our internal team as we worked together

Icanseewithmy owneyesthatthis isasensible& understanding environmentthat reallywantsmeto succeed. Itruly lovethatthe directionandway thingsaredone aresoinlinewith thewayIthinkand feelaswell."

with Harrigan to build trustworthy teams that used continuous improvement practices which not only improved throughput but also increased engagement and energized our own teams.”

By keeping engagement and communication at the center of its approach, Harrigan Sanitation Solutions helps reduce operational risk, strengthen compliance, and maintain consistent sanitation performance across the plants it supports. In a competitive industry, the company continues to show that lasting improvement starts with one thing: investing in people who believe their work matters.

Putting Industry Experience to Work: InsightNetworkAdvisors

Wisconsin’s food and beverage industry is powered by deep expertise, and as a member, you can tap into that know-how through our Insight Network, formerly known as the FaBricator Program. Our vetted Advisors offer confidential guidance on business challenges big or small, from engaging your team to finding parts for your production line. Send us your questions on HR, food safety, operations, sustainability, or anything else, and we’ll connect you with the right people for answers and resources. Thank you to the industry professionals who served in 2025!

MattWessel Milwaukee Pretzel Co.
KatieMleziva Real Food Brands
SaraSarnstrom Wixon
ErikZellmer Managed Packaging Systems
CindyAnderson Employ Milwaukee
LeahZiemba Michael Best
ClayPautz Parallel Employment Group
MirandaDaywalt West Bend Co.
MarieColmerauer MATC
Stephanie Sobczak Eurofins
KarlNobert Michael Best
StaciEggert One Source Staffing
Jared DeNoble Johnsonville
DanKipp Create-A-Pack Foods
MichaelGraft RSM US LLP
DaveCrass Michael Best
ColetteCleary MRA
DarrinDesmarais Food Tech, Inc.
JamieValenti-Jordan Catapult Commercialization Services
ClayGiese Rely Contract Manufacturing
ChuckPalmer Michael Best
HannahBrandenberg Novonesis
JenniferMojica Stella & Chewy’s
SamPatterson Lesaffre Red Star Yeast
ScottHalverson Denali Ingredients
RayNaranjo First Citizens Bank
PaulBenson Michael Best
AnneVravick Mount Mary University
MelissaDietrich Regal Holdings

WhatWasAskedin2025?

When we say you can ask us anything, we really mean it. This past year, members reached out for help making connections, solving tricky problems, finding the right resources, and plenty more. Take a look at the types of questions that came through the Insight Network in 2025.

AreasofExperience

There’s no question too big or too small! Here are some of the areas of experience our Advisors can assist you with:

ACCOUNTING&FINANCE

BUILDINGS&FACILITIES

BUSINESSPLANNING

CO-PACKING

DISTRIBUTION&RETAIL

EMPLOYEESAFETY

PutYourIndustryExperiencetoWork. BecomeanAdvisor!

If you have industry experience and a willingness to help your peers, consider applying to become an Advisor! You’ll receive member inquiries in your areas of experience, and if you know the answer or have a resource, simply respond. Or don’t – this is a zero-obligation position.

Do it for business development. Do it to share your know-how. Do it to help grow the food and beverage industry.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

EXPORTING&IMPORTING

HUMANRESOURCES

INFORMATION&TECHNOLOGIES

LEGAL

LICENSING&LABELING

INSURANCE

INTERNATIONAL

MARKETING

MERGERS&ACQUISITIONS

OPERATIONS

PRODUCTION

REGULATORY,

RESEARCH&DEVELOPMENT

SALES

SUPPLYCHAIN&LOGISTICS

TRANSPORTATION

Vanguard Renewables: SustainabilityinEveryScrap

Whatdocowmanureandcookie crumbshaveincommon?Together, they’refuelingacleanenergyfuture.

At Vanguard Renewables, science meets sustainability to transform food waste into renewable natural gas through anaerobic digestion, and Wisconsin is next in line.

“We work with food and beverage manufacturers, retailers, and distributors to divert their inedible organic waste from the landfill and instead recycle it into renewable energy at one of our farm-based anaerobic digestion facilities,” says Billy Kepner, Director of Government Affairs & Community Relations.

Through a fully integrated model developed over a decade of operational experience, Vanguard handles the transportation, separation, and recycling of both loose and packaged pre-consumer waste. Once at the facility, food waste is separated from its packaging, most of which is also recycled, and sent to the anaerobic digester, where it’s broken down alongside cow manure by naturally occurring microbes. As a result, methane is released and upgraded to pipeline-quality renewable natural gas (RNG), a drop-in fuel compatible with existing infrastructure.

Wisconsin is a key player in Vanguard’s growing national footprint. The company is commissioning a new farm-powered anaerobic digestion facility just 60 miles north of Milwaukee, located on a 500-cow, familyowned dairy farm. Once operational, the site will

process more than 100,000 tons of organic waste and generate over 250,000 MMBtu of RNG each year, which will power AstraZeneca’s U.S. medicine manufacturing.

Beyond creating clean energy, Vanguard’s facilities generate lasting impacts on the communities they serve.

“Our anaerobic digestion facilities are located on multigenerational family farms, and our farm partners receive an annual lease payment and a low-carbon fertilizer,” says Kepner. “Our process helps keep their family farms running for years to come with an additional income stream. And for our dairy farm partners, it provides manure and nutrient management solutions while also helping them mitigate methane emissions from their herds and reduce farm odor.”

Kepner emphasizes the broader environmental stakes, citing that roughly 40% of food produced in the U.S. ends up as waste – and that waste contributes to 8% of national greenhouse gas emissions.

“We believe that diverting food and beverage waste from landfill has many benefits,” says Kepner, “including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting our nation’s farm families.”

Vanguard’s Wisconsin facility is expected to begin processing food waste from local manufacturers by summer 2025, providing a scalable, biotech-driven solution to one of the food and beverage industry’s most pressing sustainability challenges.

by Emily Allen, FaB Wisconsin

Member Event

RedefiningDiversity:WhattheNew AdministrationMeansforthe Food&BeverageIndustry

May6,2025 @ MRA – The Management Association

We had the pleasure of hosting a powerful conversation on building diverse workplaces in our industry, which also included valuable insights on what to expect under the new administration.

A special thank you to our incredible speakers: Kathy Krohn, Samantha Siebenaller, and Jennifer Agnew of MRA for kicking things off with an inspiring keynote, and our insightful panelists Alan Goodman of A Goodman's Desserts, Gabriela Parra of Plethora Trading LLC, and Katie Malnight Meisinger of Engauge Workforce Solutions for sharing their experiences and perspectives.

We're grateful for the active participation of our members! Let’s keep the conversation going as we work together to shape a more inclusive future in food and beverage.

Strengthening Food Safety & Your Bottom Line withGrant-SupportedFaBsafeTraining

Created and developed by FaB Wisconsin, FaBsafe is an industry-recognized annual basic food and beverage safety training certificate designed for anyone working in or entering roles tied to food, beverage, or ingredient manufacturing. It helps companies stay compliant with FSMA’s requirement for documented food safety training, and we’re committed to making that process as accessible and low-cost as possible for our members.

In 2024, we made a major stride toward that goal by moving the full FaBsafe Certificate® suite online. This shift gives participants the flexibility to complete the program at their own pace or integrate it into broader company training, making compliance easier while supporting workforce development across our industry.

We’re also deeply grateful to MATC and Trisha Stehr for partnering with us on the latest Workforce Advancement Training (WAT) Grant throughout 2025. Thanks to their collaboration, members were able to into meaningful savings on FaBsafe courses along with other food and beverage–specific training, helping strengthen skills while supporting the bottom line through available grant dollars.

$198,593 Awardedin Grant Dollars

Quick Bites withLongtimeMembers

BaenschFoodProductsCo., a division of Wild Foods, Inc., is a seafood manufacturer specializing in the highest quality and best tasting marinated herring. Baensch packs sustainable Atlantic herring from Newfoundland under the “Ma Baensch” brand. Founded in 1932 by the Baensch family, the company was purchased by Kim Wall in 1999. Today, Baensch continues to use the original family recipes for its two flavors of marinated herring: original and sour cream and chive. Ma’s herring is kosher certified through the OU.

Baensch company president, KimWall, had gathered at the Miller Caves back in 2011. “I was very excited to learn from and share experiences with my fellow Wisconsin food manufacturers back in 2011 and still find the ability to call on fellow professionals in the food industry space a great benefit to Ma’s success as a quality food manufacturer in Wisconsin,” shared Wall. In addition to being a member of FaB, Baensch is a longstanding member of the National Fisheries Institute, the largest seafood trade organization in the world. Upon joining in 2000, Wall attended the NFI’s prestigious Future Leaders training.

Baensch is especially proud of a special FaB sponsorship in 2017, which eventually lead to the creation of the FaBsafe Certificate®. This beneficial food safety training program allows food and beverage manufacturers, at a reasonable cost, to give needed and FSMA-required annual training and expertise to their employees.

PHOTOBY STACYKAAT

Serving Up Success: FaBSupportsWisconsin’s FoodandBeverageIndustry

Everystatehasitsshareofstrengths.

In Wisconsin, there’s no denying that one of them is the food and beverage industry. Just look at the following insights published by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC):

Eight of the 10 largest food companies in the world have operations in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin is the number one producer of cheese, cranberries, ginseng, dry whey, milk goats and snap beans.

Wisconsin ranks second in the nation for the number of certified organic farms and is a world leader in animal genetics.

But for the industry to sustain this level of excellence, it takes the collective effort of food and beverage company owners, presidents, CEOs and stakeholders. Thanks to Food and Beverage Wisconsin (FaB), collaboration and discourse between these parties has never been easier.

FaB, launched by the Milwaukee 7 Partnership for Economic Development (M7) in 2012, emerged from M7’s recognition of the food and beverage industry as a regional growth cluster. Today, FaB serves just over 140 member companies and 2,000+ industry professionals.

FaBisanexcellentconnector,allowingusto connectandmeetwithothermanufacturersand industrycompaniestoreachthisgoal.Thisis whywe’vebeenmembersfromthevery beginningandcontinuetobemembers.

“FaB was created to support and grow the unique needs of the food and beverage manufacturing industry of Wisconsin. Almost 15 years later, FaB’s impact on the industry continues to be felt as we are driving innovation, growth and sustainability by facilitating member collaboration and connections to share best practices and address industryspecific business challenges. Our outreach is enhancing FaB’s visibility as the leading voice for Wisconsin’s food and beverage manufacturing sector,” said FaB Executive Director Gina Balke.

FaB membership benefits revolve around access, engagement and promotion.

Members are invited to exclusive events and webinars, where they receive expertise from industry professionals and opportunities to network with other food and beverage professionals. Since its launch, FaB has hosted more than 300 events and webinars.

Recently, the organization held “Food, Beverage & Agriculture: Exploring Wisconsin’s Future” at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center. Members gained insights from individuals at Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. FaB is excited to host its “Tax, Tariffs and Trends” event next month.

“From the minute we joined FaB, we realized the power of being connected to other like-minded manufacturing businesses that were facing many of the same questions we were. We continue to highlight the networking piece as the biggest benefit we’ve realized in being FaB members, and one of the reasons we will continue to be members,” said Matt Wessel, owner and COO of Milwaukee Pretzel Co.

Aside from attendance at events, FaB members are encouraged to participate in engagement opportunities like the FaBricator Program, Leadership Council, industry-specific surveys, career development initiatives and food safety training certifications.

“FaB brings together a community of companies and individuals interested in helping to grow the food ecosystem here in Wisconsin. Practically, the authentic relationships developed through FaB allow my company to answer questions quickly and rapidly navigate new obstacles. We’re happy to then share our learnings with others to continue to advance the whole FaB community,” said Brian Durst, chairman and CEO of Tribe 9 Foods.

Members can display logos on FaB’s member listing, advertise food and beverage-related events and find new hires through FaB’s industry job listing page.

“Like all businesses, we want every advantage in the marketplace – that allows us to win. We have a saying at Palermo’s: we want to win with our people so we can win with our customers. One of the keys to the success of our people is learning from the great food and beverage companies here in Wisconsin,” said Giacomo Fallucca, chairman and CEO of Palermo’s Pizza. “FaB is an excellent connector, allowing us to connect and meet with other manufacturers and industry companies to reach this goal. This is why we’ve been members from the very beginning and continue to be members. A FaB membership gives you this opportunity for a competitive advantage.”

Member Event

OnTap:Tax,Tariffs&Trends

August19,2025 @ Broken Bat Brewery

We had a great member event at Broken Bat Brewing Co., where owner and founder Tim Pauly welcomed us to his ballpark-inspired brewery.

Karen A Galivan, tax partner at RSM US LLP, walked us through Navigating Economic Headwinds in Food & Beverage, sharing insights on the middle market business index, what’s ahead for employment, personal spending, and income, as well as a look at tariffs and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and what it could mean for businesses.

Along with the discussion, there was plenty of time for conversation, networking, and catching up over beer and appetizers from Saz's Hospitality Group.

Many thanks to Broken Bat for hosting, to Karen for sharing her expertise, and to everyone who joined us!

Getting a Taste for the Industry: FaBEventIntroducesStudents toCareerPathways

WhatdoyouassociatewithWisconsin?Forsome,it’scheesecurds andbrats,whileforothersit’sbeerandcustard.

The strength of the state’s food and beverage industry is undeniable, but to continue to transform farm-fresh ingredients into the delicious food and beverage items widely enjoyed, it is important to educate younger generations on the industry’s career pathways. Food and Beverage (FaB) Wisconsin did just that at its annual Farm-Factory-Fork career discovery event.

High school students from across the state gathered at Lakeland University for a morning of exploration and connection. FaB Executive Director Gina Balke, university faculty and a Lakeland alum kicked off the event with an informational session about the importance of the industry and how universities like Lakeland offer industry-specific programming.

“We’ve always been recession-proof; people will still purchase food at higher prices and now we can say the industry is pandemic-proof. While other industries were told to stay home and suffered layoffs during the pandemic, food and beverage manufacturing companies were deemed essential and employees went to work every day during the pandemic to ensure our country was supplied with food and beverages. Food and beverage manufacturing is a solid industry within Wisconsin,” said Balke.

Preparing individuals for a career within the industry begins with teaching the necessary skills. Lakeland’s food safety and quality undergraduate program is the first of its kind. The program’s blend of science and business-based curriculum prepares students for a successful career in food manufacturing.

Allie Shane, MMAC
Ourstate ishometo nearly19,000food andbeverage companies. These companiesmake Wisconsinoneof thebestplacesto startandgrowa foodandbeverage industrycareerand business. Weholdthisevent everyyearto encouragestudents toconsiderour industryasacareer choicefortheir future.”

“We have an amazing food safety program,” said Lakeland University President Beth Borgen, D.B.A. “Within a 30-mile radius, there are several major employers that want our students to study food safety and quality.”

Many of these employers participated in the career discovery galleria portion of Farm-Factory-Fork. Industry leaders and local universities set up booths in the Lakeland gym. Students visited each table, asked questions and participated in hands-on learning activities.

“Our state is home to nearly 19,000 food and beverage companies. These companies make Wisconsin one of the best places to start and grow a food and beverage industry career and business. We hold this event every year to encourage students to consider our industry as a career choice for their future,” said Balke.

One business in attendance was FaB and MMAC member Sargento Food Inc. For over 70 years, the company has operated out of its Plymouth headquarters, growing to become a leader in cheese production.

“The benefits of doing events like this are for us to really connect with early talent and help them see the opportunities and careers there are in the food and beverage industry,” remarked Anne Troka, Sargento’s Senior Manager of Community and Workforce Development. “For us at Sargento, we

have over 2,500 employees and over 13 different departments. Within those departments, there are many different teams, so there are so many careers for students that they don’t even realize until they come to something like this.”

Across the gym at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center table, students learned about agriculture career pathways and participated in a cow ultrasound simulation. “At Farm Wisconsin, our goal is to help connect the dots from farm to table, and we are so happy to share the story on behalf of not only our farmers, but our processors here in the state,” said Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center’s Brand Manager Abigail Winkel. “Offering students a chance to explore careers along that agriculture career pathway is really important and essential to the success of agriculture in the future, and at Farm Wisconsin, we’re proud to play a role in that process.”

In addition to the career discovery galleria, students enjoyed a tour of Lakeland University and its state-of-theart food safety and quality lab, as well as a “Let’s learn about cheese!” presentation.

Member Event

Food,Beverage&Agriculture:

ExploringWisconsin’sFuture

June19,2025 @ Farm WisconsinDiscovery Center

We gathered at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center for a memorable member event full of insight and connection.

We heard from Executive Director Patty Lehn on sparking curiosity around farming and food, witnessed a surprise live calf birth (welcome, Cream Soda!), and gained industry insights from Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary Randy Romanski on exports, sustainability, and state support for food and ag.

Thanks to Farm Wisconsin for hosting, and to everyone who joined us for the great conversation, networking, drinks, and tours. We’re glad you were part of it!

Real Workforce Insights forWisconsin’sFoodandBeverageIndustry

Access to FaB Wisconsin’s biennial Talent & Wage Survey is a valuable member benefit. Food and beverage manufacturers are invited to contribute their data, and all members gain access to the full results, offering a trusted, industry specific look at talent trends across Wisconsin.

The 2024 survey included responses from 56 Wisconsin based food and beverage organizations and delivered fresh insights into recruitment and retention strategies employers are actively using today. It also provided detailed wage and salary data for 59 roles commonly found across the food and beverage industry, giving members practical benchmarks they can use with confidence.

A clear theme emerged in 2024. While companies reported confidence in their ability to find talent across many occupational areas, concerns about turnover and retention dominated the results. Ongoing movement within the industry has made it harder to retain top performers, and the cost of that churn is significant. In response, many employers are rethinking workplace culture, onboarding practices, and benefits programs, signaling a more holistic approach to talent management across the industry.

ThenextTalent&Wage Surveywilllaunchin summer2026,continuing toprovidememberswith timelydataand actionableinsightsto supportsmarter workforcedecisions.

Member Webinar

SyntheticDyes&Ultra-ProcessedFoods: TheLegalLandscape&WhatComesNext

September23,2025

Featuring Paul Benson, Partner at Michael Best & Friedrich

We were glad to welcome Paul Benson, Partner at Michael Best, who walked members through the fast-evolving conversations around synthetic dyes and ultra-processed foods. Paul outlined the growing Make America Healthy Again movement, how various states are responding, and what companies here in Wisconsin should be prepared for. He also broke down the current regulatory landscape and shared practical guidance on what may be coming next so members can stay ahead of the curve.

Thank you, Paul, for sharing these insights and helping our members prepare for what’s ahead!

Member Webinar

BuildingaFood&BeverageBrand ThatStandsOut

February28,2025

Featuring Katie Mleziva, Founder & Food Brand Strategist of Real Food Brands

Katie Mleziva, Founder and Food Brand Strategist at Real Food Brands, led an engaging session focused on sharpening brand strategy in a crowded marketplace. She walked members through the importance of defining a clear brand foundation: understanding your audience, shaping your brand personality, and crafting a compelling brand story that resonates. Katie also emphasized the value of getting internal teams aligned so everyone is working toward the same vision.

Thank you, Katie, for sharing your expertise and helping our members strengthen their brand strategy.

Quick Bites withLongtimeMembers

Canyoutellusaboutyourcompany?

“I’m host of The Food Business Marketing Podcast, where we explore strategies to build food brands that stand out and shake up shopping carts. And as founder of Real Food Brands, I bring a brand-management mindset to food businesses of all sizes helping leaders clarify vision, strengthen positioning, and align growth initiatives with strategy. My brand strategy consulting, speaking, and advising work bridges corporate best practices with entrepreneurial agility to drive differentiation and sustainable growth.”

WhydidyoujoinFaB?

“I joined FaB after leaving my corporate role to start my business as a way to stay connected and contribute to the growth of Wisconsin’s food industry. Over nearly 10 years as a member, I’ve served as a brand mentor, participated on various committees, attended events, and hosted webinars. FaB has been an important way for me to stay engaged with the industry and work together to shape the future of food in Wisconsin and beyond.”

WhyisbeingpartoftheFaBnetworkimportanttoyou?

“FaB brings together businesses of all types within the industry, creating space for insight exchange, economic development, and partnership. Active involvement creates ongoing opportunities for individual companies plus shared success across the network – that’s important to me and I’m happy to be a part of it!”

Building on a Legacy: RegalWareCelebrates80Years ofInnovation&Community

Asharedmealisapowerfulconnector.

Thanks to MMAC and FaB member Regal Ware Inc., a fourth-generation, family-owned cookware and kitchen essentials company based in the Milwaukee area, people around the globe continue to have the tools to foster connections and build strong communities.

Founded in 1945, Regal Ware’s story began with a stainless-steel saucepan factory. Today, the company is a global leader in the cookware industry, serving customers in 60 countries and displaying a remarkable portfolio of brands and divisions, including SynergyOps – Regal Ware’s nationally based manufacturing arm –and Saladmaster, the company’s direct sales division. 2025 has proven to be an unforgettable year, as the company celebrates eight decades of growth, innovation and community spirit.

Regal Ware kicked off its 80th anniversary festivities in March with a VIP social at The Norbert in West Bend to honor the company’s journey, followed by its Partner Summit with SynergyOps. The summit was an opportunity for partners, vendors and customers to discuss the future of U.S. manufacturing, emerging cookware trends and the power of strategic collaboration.

The following months were marked by several more exciting events, including Regal Ware’s April feature on PBS Wisconsin’s Main Streets with John McGivern, the groundbreaking of Regal Place, a 48-home residential development on the historic site of the company’s longtime Kewaskum headquarters, and a July feature in Forbes magazine.

“When I look at the legacy, it’s not about the Reigle family. To me, we’re all carrying the baton for a little while, and the goal is to run a good race. But at some point, it’s time to hand that off. If my great-grandfather’s picture is still on the wall, I think that’s a win, because we’re staying true to the values upon which we were founded. And we’re helping generations of other families,” said company CEO Ryan Reigle to Forbes.

August has been especially busy for the company. On Aug. 1, stakeholders took a tour of SynergyOps’ factory. The next day, employees, families, scholarship recipients and community partners convened at the Milwaukee County Zoo for an 80th anniversary celebration. Shortly after, Regal Ware received local recognition from Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, who proclaimed Aug. 6 as “Regal Ware Day.” The recognition is a testament to the company’s 80-year legacy and lasting impact on the community.

Allie Shane, MMAC

Member Event BusinessAfterHours@RegalWare

November6,2025 @ Regal Ware

FaB, MMAC, and Regal Ware teamed up on November 6th in Milwaukee to host a fun and flavorful networking event. Members explored the Regal Ware space at their own pace, took in hands-on demonstrations, and enjoyed great food and drinks.

We're so grateful for member Regal Ware for opening their doors and creating so many engaging, interactive experiences that made the evening educational, fun, and memorable!

The Strength ofOurState

It’s easy to see why eight of the world’s ten largest food companies call Wisconsin home. Our state offers a dependable supply chain, a prime central location for streamlined distribution, abundant natural resources, and a workforce with unmatched expertise in food and beverage manufacturing.

Rooted in rich agricultural traditions and powered by cutting-edge food science and advanced manufacturing, Wisconsin delivers a dynamic environment where food and beverage companies don’t just operate…they thrive.

142,000

Cheese, Cranberries, SnapBeans & Ginseng

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