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Robinson Earns Fab 40 Ranking as a Leading Contract Manufacturer

Wisconsin firm ranks seventh among metal fabrication companies

Robinson Inc., a De Pere, Wisconsin-based contract manufacturer, ranks seventh on the newly released Fab 40 list of North America’s top fabrication companies by The Fabricator magazine. The honor comes on the heels of Robinson earning its fourth straight supplier of the year award from Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG.

Robinson, which focuses its operations in metal solutions and power generation systems, is one of six Wisconsin-based companies on the Fab 40 list and the only contract manufacturer located in northeastern Wisconsin. Robinson has qualified for the Fab 40 list all fifteen years since the list’s inception in 2010.

person welding with welding helmet on

“We continue to expand our capabilities to better serve our customers,” says Jeff Kroening, director of sales for Robinson. “We have invested in additional space and equipment while growing our employee base to become a contract manufacturer of choice. In addition, we have narrowed our service offerings to elevate our production expertise to an elite level.”

The Fabricator identifies the 40 most successful metal fabrication operations on the basis of 2024 self-reported revenue. Robinson reported 2024 revenue of $250 million, with projected 2025 revenue of $285 million generated through its four locations in Brown and Manitowoc counties.

Flexible capacity boosts status as a leading contract manufacturer

Robinson’s flexible manufacturing capacity answers the rapidly increasing demand for American-made fabricated systems that also feature materials sourced in the United States. As a key contract manufacturer in the energy industry, Robinson is positioned to deliver a wide range of cost-effective finished products.

The ability to reposition assets and people to where they are most effective creates an agile production environment that is rare among American contract manufacturers. Robinson has more than doubled its manufacturing space over the past five years to heighten its commitment toward onshore production.

These investments have enabled Robinson to become a major player in the expanding energy sector. Robinson serves as a contract manufacturer of enclosures, integrator, and commercial manufacturing and assembly supplier with capacity that will keep the company on the Fab 40 list for the foreseeable future.

About Robinson, Inc.

Robinson, Inc., is a single-source metal solutions provider based in De Pere, Wisconsin. Robinson offers design, manufacturing and production fabrication for a wide range of industries. The company employs over 800 people at four Wisconsin locations comprising 770,000 square feet of manufacturing space.

For more information about Robinson’s capabilities or to request a quote, please call (920) 494-7411, or visit https://robinsoninc.com.

United In Purpose, Stronger in Impact: VPI and VARC Unite.

Vpi and Varc Announce Strategic Merger to Expand Disability Services and Employment Supports Across Wisconsin

VPI logo

Appleton, WI — VPI, Inc., a longtime nonprofit provider of disability and employment services in the Fox Valley, is pleased to announce its intent to merge with VARC, Inc., a nonprofit based in Viroqua, Wisconsin with a strong presence throughout central and southwestern Wisconsin. This merger, slated to occur this November, brings together the mission-driven organizations committed to empowering individuals of all abilities through personalized support, inclusive employment, and lifelong opportunity.

By joining forces, VPI and VARC will enhance their services, broaden their reach, and strengthen support for individuals with disabilities across Wisconsin. The merger will deliver several key benefits to individuals, families, employees, and business partners:

Broadened Programming

By combining complementary strengths—ranging from licensed childcare, adult day services, supported employment, early intervention services, trauma-informed mental health care, and school-to-work transition programming— we will provide a comprehensive continuum of care to more individuals throughout the state. This integrated approach not only enhances inclusive workforce development by creating meaningful employment and skill-building opportunities that promote personal growth and independence but also allows us to innovate and respond swiftly to changing community needs with coordinated, timely services.

Expanded Reach and Service Capacity

With nearly 120 years of combined experience, the merged organization unites deep expertise and extensive networks across southwestern, central, and northeastern Wisconsin. This expanded reach enables us to deliver coordinated supports across counties including Vernon, La Crosse, Richland, Sauk, Juneau, Columbia, Adams, Racine, Outagamie, Calumet, Winnebago, Waupaca, Fond du Lac, and Brown—better meeting the diverse needs of individuals and families.

Amplified Advocacy and Community Impact

United under one mission, we have a stronger voice to advocate for disability rights, promote inclusion, and support families at every stage of life. Our strengthened partnerships with funders, employers, and local governments position us to drive systemic change and advance opportunities for people with disabilities statewide.

Expanded Business Partnerships and Customer Convenience

With more locations across Wisconsin offering contract packaging services, we will provide packaging customers greater convenience, flexibility, and access to meet their unique business needs. Merging our operations strengthens our ability to support local businesses while sustaining the mission-driven work that empowers the individuals we serve.

“This merger is a natural alignment of two organizations that share a deep commitment to service, innovation, and person-centered values,” said Tim Riebau, President & CEO of VPI. “Together, we are building on our strengths to ensure long term sustainability, greater opportunities for those we serve, and continued positive impact in our communities.”

VARC President & CEO Liz Filter added, “VPI has built a remarkable legacy in the Fox Valley, and we’re honored to move forward together. This merger enhances our ability to deliver exceptional services and creates new pathways for collaboration, advocacy, and innovation across the entire state.”

The transition has been carefully designed to maintain continuity of care, minimize disruption, and uphold the quality of services both organizations are known for. Existing programs will continue uninterrupted, with the same teams and the same values guiding every decision.

Ongoing updates will be provided to clients, families, and community partners throughout the integration process.

About VARC

Founded in 1975 by a small group of parents and educators in Viroqua, WI, VARC is a nonprofit organization that has since expanded its mission to provide a comprehensive array of services for individuals with varying abilities. These services encompass licensed childcare, employment support, transportation assistance, recovery-informed services, child and youth programs, and customized services. Currently, VARC serves over 850 individuals with disabilities across Wisconsin, operating from 13 locations. Our reach extends to communities in Vernon, Richland, Sauk, Juneau, Columbia, Adams, La Crosse, Racine, and Walworth County, as well as neighboring counties. At VARC, we are dedicated to empowering individuals with varying abilities by promoting active community participation, fostering independence, and providing diverse, meaningful experiences, all centered around the core value of individual choice.

About VPI

Founded in 1956, VPI, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a wide range of programs and services to more than 2,000 individuals with disabilities and/or disadvantages annually in the Fox Cities and surrounding areas. Services include early intervention, education and school-to-work transition programs, employment support, mental health services, and inclusive social enrichment opportunities. To help sustain and expand these services, VPI operates a contract packaging and production business that employs an integrated workforce—creating meaningful employment while generating revenue that supports the evolving needs of the people we serve.

A Letter from Marty: Food Companies in Wisconsin and the Impact on Food Packaging

Marty Ochs

The 5P and Converting Industries in Wisconsin lead the nation and one of the biggest reasons is the Food and Beverage Industries in Wisconsin. WEDC has done an excellent job tracking these industries! The upcoming Specialty Paper, Printing, Converting, Coating, and Packaging Conference will have a heavy emphasis on the Food Packaging Industry.

  1. Wisconsin has 3,747 industry companies in Food and Beverages
  2. Eight out of ten of the largest food companies in the world have operations in Wisconsin.
  3. The industry employees 142,667 in Wisconsin
  4. If Wisconsin were a nation, we would be the fourth largest producer of cheese in the world.
  5. Wisconsin is the number one producer of ginseng, cranberries, dry whey, milk, and snap beans plus a big player in other agricultural products.
  6. Wisconsin is a World Leader in Animal Genetics
  7. The Great Lakes States Region Food and Beverage industries are the breadbasket of the USA.

We are seeing Smart and Sustainable Packaging evolving with new products, innovation, digital printing, coating technologies, paper products, intelligent and active packaging that can do more than contain a product. We see packaging increasing consumer engagement, improving product safety, and traceability with QR codes and RFID label technologies.

The growth is fueled by increasing demand for packaged foods, a developed food retail sector, and technological advancement in packaging solutions. With an increasing number of people living in urban areas characterized by fast-paced lifestyles, the fast-food market is growing. The demographic shift has led to a surge in consumption of packaged foods, particularly ready-to-eat meals. According to latest trends, 60% of consumers opt for convenient food.

The North American Market is a major part of the global food packaging market projected to reach a value of $512 billion by 2028. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2025 to 2030.

Sign up for the Specialty Paper Conference on September 16th at Miron Construction to educate and learn about 5P, Converting, and Food Industry! Go to: www.greenbayinnovationgroup.com/events – specialty paper. The cost is: $100.00 per person.

Panelists at the Specialty Paper, Printing, Converting, Coating and Packaging Conference

Dave Barr

Dave Barr

Director of New Product Development – Biorigin

Dave Barr has over 25 years of experience in the paper Industry. Since February 2022, he has been serving as the Director of New Product Development with Biorigin SP.

Dave’s career began in 1996 and he has held various roles including Process Engineer, Product Specialist, Account Representative, Technical Manager, Operations Manager, Mill Manager In both MG and Tissue, and also served as the Director of Secondary Fiber Development.

Brit Swisher

Brit Swisher

Area Vice President – Northern Region of Midland Paper, Packaging +Supplies

Brit Swisher is Area Vice President – Northern Region of Midland Paper, Packaging +Supplies, one of the nation’s largest independent paper and packaging distributors. He has over 40 years’ experience in distribution and sales of printing and specialty papers. Brit earned a Bachelor’s Degree in marketing and an MBA at Eastern Illinois University. Brit serves as a Board Member of Great Lakes Graphics Association.

Ryan Day

Ryan Day

General Manager – BPM Paper

Ryan Day’s career in the paper industry started in 2003 after graduating from UW Stevens Point with a degree in Paper Science. His career includes positions at Badger Paper Mills and Kemira prior to him joining BPM Inc. in 2009.

While at BPM, Ryan has held roles as Technical/Quality Manager, Paper Mill Manager, and Plant Manager prior to becoming General Manager in 2023. Ryan was born and grew up in central Wisconsin and presently resides in Peshtigo. His hobbies include golfing, bowling, and enjoying the outdoors.

Dean Benjamin

Dean Benjamin

Director of Product Development – Ahlstrom

Dean Benjamin received a B.S. degree in Paper Science and Engineering from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point and then went on to earn a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Minnesota. While at Minnesota, he studied computational and experimental fluid mechanics of the roll coating process under Professor L.E. Scriven.

Upon graduation, Dean joined Avery Dennison as a Research Engineer at the Avery Research Center in Pasadena, CA where he led projects to develop coating processes for the production of pressure sensitive labels and tapes.

Dean then joined Consolidated Papers, Inc. as a Senior Research Engineer at their R&D facility in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. After five changes of ownership, he is currently the Director of Product Development for Ahlstrom located at their Stevens Point, WI mill. Dean is focused on developing new specialty paper products for food packaging including barrier and heat seal papers, labels, release liners and other industrial papers.

Dean Benjamin is the Director of Product Development for Ahlstrom in Stevens Point, WI. Dean is focused on developing new specialty paper products for food packaging including barrier and heat seal papers, labels, release liners and other industrial papers.

Mark Hunter

Mark Hunter

Value Stream Manager and
Director Technology Innovation – Hoffmaster Group Inc.

Mark Hunter has over 25 years of pulp and paper experience as an Asset Manager, Production Manager, and Process Engineering/Technical Superintendent. Currently, Mark is the Value Stream Manager and Director Technology Innovation at Hoffmaster Group Inc. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Maine and an MBA at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Mark leads a team of 32 maintenance and engineering employees at Hoffmaster Group Inc., a leading printed napkin and paper plate plant with 420 employees.

Presenters at the Specialty Paper, Printing, Converting, Coating and Packaging Conference

Jay Downey

Presenter, Jay Downey

Product Management Sun Chemical
Responsible for Adhesives and Coatings for Flexible Packaging
1990 UW-Stevens Point Graduate B.S. Degree in Elementary Education
2005 UW-Superior Graduate B.S. Degree in Business Administration

Jay Downey, of Sun Chemicals, has 35+ years of experience in the printing and converting industry. He is an industry application expert for flexible packaging who has managed the Technical Department for one of the largest flexible packaging converters in North America.

He is a Certified ISO 14001 auditor and experienced leader in Six Sigma and Lean Methodology. Jay currently sits on the academic advisory board for UW-Stevens Point’s Paper Science and Chemical Engineering department.

Roles Served: operating manufacturing equipment, managing a Technical Department for one of the largest flexible packaging converters in North America, responsible for operations for a start-up digital flexible packaging platform which included the first commercial install in North America of the HP 20000 press and developed and managed a sales team in North America generating sales and growth in paper and flexible packaging. Viewed as an industry application expert for flexible packaging.

Experience Includes: Digital Print, pouch making, digital print laminations, cold seal application in natural rubber and synthetic, inline processing of water base and solvent base adhesive applications with cold seal, water base ink technology, solventless adhesive/water base ink laminations, reseal cold seal applications, barrier coating technology and quality assurance test procedures for cold seal drying and retained moisture, growing and developing a sales team in North America for the paper and flexible packaging markets.

Association Roles Served: Served as a member of the Flexographic Technical Association Wide Web Leadership Council, served as co-chair of the Sustainable Green Printing Committee, served on executive board of the Sustainable Green Partnership as vice chair of the certified printers of SGP. Certified ISO 14001 auditor and experienced leader in Six Sigma and Lean Methodology. Currently sits on the academic advisory board for UW-Stevens Point’s Paper Science and Chemical Engineering department.

Paul Fowler

Presenter, Paul Fowler

Wisconsin Institute for Sustainable Technology
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Paul Fowler has nearly 30 years of experience working at the interface of business and academia in the United Kingdom and the United States, translating the best of academic research into actionable outcomes for companies in the pulp, paper, bio-based plastics and packaging industries. He is the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Institute for Sustainable Technology (WIST) at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point where he leads laboratories dedicated to compostability testing, pulp and paper research and development as well as analytical testing.

With a keen eye to detail and a PhD in organic chemistry, Fowler guides WIST to provide technical excellence, exemplary customer service and world-class results. Fowler speaks regularly at conferences addressing matters of sustainability, paper and paper-based packaging, bio-based plastics, compostability and recyclability.

August 13th, 2025 Newsletter

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Read the August 13th, 2025 Green Bay Innovation Group Newsletter here.

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GBIG NEWS | 91 Stories and Links on the Internet 08/13/2025

GBIG News

Get links to the latest news, events, stories, and interviews from our 5P news members. Our goal is to remind the decision-makers in Wisconsin of the importance of our industry both historically, and more importantly, into the future.

Read the latest 91 Stories and Links on the Internet below.

Events

Featured Stories

Specialty Paper

Education

Packaging

Label

Paper

Flexible Packaging Company

Sponsors

Keller, Inc.: Nations #6 Top Metal Builder and Wisconsin’s #1

The winners have been announced for Top Metal Builder for Tonnage & Top Metal Builder for Square Footage. In 2024, Keller, Inc. ranked #6 in the nation for Tonnage and #6 for Square Footage. Congratulations to all employee-owners on this incredible accomplishment!

Keller Inc McNeilus Steel building
Read the Full Article Here

Great Lakes Label adds Mark Andy DSiQ-R ‘powered by Domino’ digital retrofit module

Great Lakes Label, located in Comstock Park, Michigan USA, is the very first installation in North America of the new Mark Andy DSiQ-R ‘powered by Domino’ digital retrofit module.

The new Mark Andy DSiQ-R was installed onto an existing 10-color 13” Mark Andy Performance Series P5 flexo press. The DSiQ-R is a digital retrofit module, designed & built by Domino, for converters to add digital printing capability onto an existing flexographic press… without adding additional footprint.

Great Lakes Label and DSiQ-R

Utilizing the industry-leading Domino N610i digital UV inkjet print engine, the DSiQ-R is a compact retrofittable 3-in-1 flexible hybrid solution, allowing Great Lakes Label to maximize productivity for full hybrid printing, digital-only printing, or flexo-only printing. It is a compact, flexible solution without the need for additional space, delivering excellent print quality and production flexibility, while taking advantage of quick turnaround and non-stop production for multiple SKU jobs. (This retrofit is available from Mark Andy as the DSiQ-R, and from Domino as the N610i-R).

We caught up with Tony Cook, Founder & CEO of Great Lakes Label to learn more about the business, and the drivers for adding the Mark Andy DSiQ-R. Our visit was captured in this VIDEO: Great Lakes Label.

The Drive for Digital Printing

Great Lakes Label has built a reputation for providing high-quality, innovative label solutions across industries including food, beverage, household goods, automotive, and horticulture. As customer demands shifted toward shorter runs, increased customization, and faster turnaround times, the need for digital printing became clear.

“We have always been focused on innovation,” said Tony. “With growing demand for shorter production runs and variable printing, we knew digital was the next logical step. But we wanted to do it in a way that complemented our existing capabilities without compromising efficiency.”

Why Domino? Why Mark Andy?

Great Lakes Label explored various digital printing options over the years but was drawn to Domino’s technology for its superior quality, reliability, and ability to seamlessly integrate with their current flexographic operations. The company was particularly interested in a solution that would enhance productivity without requiring a complete overhaul of its press lineup.

“Our relationship with Mark Andy played a key role,” said Tony. “When we learned that they were collaborating with Domino on a retrofit solution, it was exactly what we had been hoping for—an innovative, hybrid approach that would allow us to maximize our existing press investments while adding digital capabilities.”

The Power of Partnership

The collaboration between Great Lakes Label, Domino, and Mark Andy exemplifies the power of industry partnerships. By installing the Domino-powered Mark Andy DSiQ-R onto an existing P5 flexo press, Great Lakes Label can now offer its customers greater flexibility, enhanced print quality, and improved turnaround times while maintaining the embellishment and finishing capabilities of their traditional press setup.

Mark Andy, a long-standing partner of Great Lakes Label, played a crucial role in bringing this integration to life. With decades of experience in flexographic press manufacturing and innovation, Mark Andy provided the necessary expertise and support to ensure seamless implementation. Their continued collaboration with Great Lakes Label underscores their shared commitment to driving advancements in the label industry.

“We were thrilled to be the first North American label converter to implement this technology,” added Tony. “This partnership is a game-changer for us, enabling us to better serve our customers with high-quality, high-efficiency digital printing while maintaining all the benefits of flexo production.”

Setting the Standard

The digital retrofit module delivers vibrant print with CMYK+ W digital UV ink, crisp detail, and exceptional durability. Combined with Mark Andy’s expertise in flexographic printing and finishing, this investment positions Great Lakes Label as a forward-thinking leader in the label industry.

“Domino has been in the inkjet game for years, Mark Andy in flexo for years, and the reputation of both companies for quality and service made them the ideal partner for this transition,” said Tony. “With this new capability, we’re not just keeping up with industry trends—we’re setting them.”

Great Lakes Label has been a trusted provider of high-quality, innovative label solutions for 30 years. Serving industries from food and beverage to automotive and horticulture, the company is dedicated to advancing label technology and providing unparalleled customer service. For more information, please visit greatlakeslabel.com

As the world’s leading printing and labels solutions company for over 75 years, Mark Andy provides smart, cost-effective, high-quality products and 360-degree service and support to the printing industry and converters – large and small. From pre-press to finishing, Mark Andy is committed to helping its customers grow through solid technology, a complete line of parts and supplies, and a strong portfolio of brands, including Rotoflex, Arpeco, Comco, Kluge, Presstek, and A.B. Dick. Based in Chesterfield, Missouri, Mark Andy serves customers in over 90 countries with the same vision: Your Growth is Our Growth. For more information, visit www.markandy.com.

Domino is a leading manufacturer and distributor of digital printing and product identification solutions. Celebrating its 47 th year in business, Domino is a global organization with world headquarters in the UK, and North America headquarters in Gurnee, Illinois. Domino has 25 subsidiaries, representation in over 120 countries, and over 3,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Domino digital printing, please visit dominodigitalprinting.com

Media Contacts:

Domino
Bill Myers
636.751.2232
bill.myers@domino-na.com

Mark Andy LPC, Inc.
Andrea Richardson
469.231.3649
andrea.richardson@markandy.com

Agency Contact for Mark Andy:

LPC, Inc.
Jackie Kuehlmann
507.313.3243
jackie@lpcprint.com

Apricity Fox Cities: New Location

Apricity logo

We are excited to share an important update regarding our manufacturing operations and corporate office. To better align with our long-term vision, we will be relocating our manufacturing plant and corporate offices from Neenah to Appleton. The new manufacturing location is on Spencer Street near Apricity’s Women’s Treatment Center. This move is driven by our commitment to creating a unified campus that will enhance our ability to serve men and women in treatment for substance use disorders. Additionally, right-sizing our facility will allow us to operate more efficiently while continuing to provide meaningful employment opportunities for men and women in recovery.

Key Updates:

  • New Corporate Mailing Address (Effective 7/24): Please send all payments to our mailing address o Apricity Corporate Office, 4764 Integrity Way, Suite 312, Appleton Wi 54913
  • ACH Payment Option: If you want to change payments from mail to ACH payments, please contact Jessie Llewellyn at jllwewllyn@apricityservices.com.
  • New Physical Plant Address Manufacturing (Mid to end of Aug.):
    • Apricity Contract Packaging 3901 W Spencer Street, Appleton, WI 54914
      • There will be some overlap within the facilities through mid to late August, with a goal of all production being in the Appleton location by the end of August.
      • We will provide updates regarding our transition, including details on when shipping drop-offs and pick-ups will move to the new facility for your organization.
  • Milwaukee Plant physical address will not change, the corporate address will change.

Apricity’s mission is to provide individuals impacted by substance use disorders with a full spectrum of care, including treatment, employment, and support services within a safe, progressive recovery community. Your contact manufacturing business plays a pivotal role in the lives of those in recovery—offering job skills, stability, and the confidence necessary to maintain sobriety. As we transition to our new location, we sincerely hope to continue our valued partnership with you.

Thank you for your ongoing support. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Cheryl Fritz
Business Development
Email:cfritz@apricityservices.com
Phone: 920-215-2933
Mobile: 920-585-4765

Dan Haak
President-Contract Packaging and Recovery Support
Email: dhaak@apricityservices.com
Phone: 920-722-2345
Mobile: 9202099264

Green Bay Innovation Group

Bringing Green Bay Companies Together. Green Bay Innovation Group is committed to building an authentic networking experience where innovation can thrive.

Contact Information

Phone: 608-698-3333 
martinpochs@gmail.com
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