News Summary
At the Future 50 Awards, five rapidly expanding companies from southeastern Wisconsin highlighted their growth strategies, focusing on innovation and adaptability. Key players like Craft Beverage Warehouse, PACE Equity, and Milwaukee Tool discussed their recent expansions and initiatives aimed at enhancing local employment and meeting consumer demands. With significant investments planned, these businesses aim to foster economic growth while navigating the evolving market landscape. The positive outlook is also reflected in a recent MMAC survey indicating increased sales expectations for local businesses.
Milwaukee – Five of the fastest-growing privately-owned companies in southeastern Wisconsin shared their growth strategies at the Future 50 Awards, an event hosted by BizTimes Media and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC). The event highlighted key adaptation and expansion initiatives undertaken by these companies in response to market demands and opportunities.
Craft Beverage Warehouse has made significant strides in diversifying its product offerings. Originally focused on microbreweries, the company has expanded into new markets, such as canned cocktails, THC-infused drinks, and specialty sodas. This strategic pivot has allowed the company to meet evolving consumer preferences. Moreover, Craft Beverage Warehouse trains all its employees from scratch, relying on internal training instead of experienced hires due to the unique nature of their machinery and processes.
Another key player, PACE Equity, has adjusted its focus in light of shifting clean energy policies and evolving trends in the real estate market. The firm is now concentrating on PACE financing for commercial projects, which is crucial for operations within the current regulatory and economic landscape.
In a move expected to invigorate local employment, Milwaukee Tool announced a $42 million investment in a new location in Menomonee Falls. The expansion is projected to create approximately 300 new jobs. This facility will be an addition to Milwaukee Tool’s existing operations and aims to capitalize on performance-based tax credits, amounting to up to $4.5 million from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). Since 2016, Milwaukee Tool has received over $75 million in tax credits, allowing the company to invest more than $420 million and increase its workforce from 900 to over 4,000 employees in Wisconsin.
The new Menomonee Falls location is strategically situated at 100 Heritage Reserve, encompassing a $6.7 million purchase of a former Strong Funds office building on a 22-acre site. This expansion signifies a robust commitment to job creation and local economic development.
In addition to Milwaukee Tool, Fairchild Equipment is also expanding its operations by acquiring two industrial buildings totaling 121,000 square feet in Milwaukee for $4.5 million. These facilities, which were previously used as a PepsiCo distribution center, will facilitate the consolidation and modernization of Fairchild’s operations. The new site at 5500 N. Lovers Lane Road will include an experience center for customer demonstrations. The company aims to grow its local team by 20% within the next year or two as they continue to enhance their service capabilities and operational efficiency.
A recent MMAC survey indicated that local businesses maintain a cautiously optimistic outlook for the economy. Approximately 55% of respondents expect increases in sales and profits in 2025 compared to 2024. However, future job market trends appear to be uneven, with nearly 48% of businesses anticipatnig job gains in the coming year.
The Future 50 Awards highlights the resilience and innovative strategies employed by businesses in southeastern Wisconsin. As these companies share their experiences, they not only foster community engagement but also contribute to a vibrant local economy that shows promising growth potential.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lombardi Brewing Co. Opens Flagship Taproom in Milwaukee
IRS Offers Tax Relief for Milwaukee Storm Victims
Milwaukee’s Economy Shows Resilience in Challenging Times
Lombardi Brewing Co. Opens Flagship Taproom in Milwaukee
Milwaukee Hosts Future 50 Awards Highlighting Growth Strategies
Milwaukee Proposes Fee Waivers to Improve Business Accessibility
Former Prenatal Care Owner Convicted of Healthcare Fraud
Former Prenatal Care Owner Convicted of Fraud in Wisconsin
Students Engage in Building Construction Trades Showcase
Construction Industry Faces Labor Shortages and Rising Costs
Additional Resources
- BizTimes: Milwaukee Tool Plans $42 Million Expansion
- Wikipedia: Milwaukee
- JS Online: Key Takeaways from Milwaukee Area Business Survey
- Google Search: Milwaukee business growth
- BizTimes: Milwaukee Tool Continued Strong Growth
- Google Scholar: Milwaukee economic growth
- BizTimes: Fairchild Equipment Finds Room to Grow
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Milwaukee
- BizTimes: Opportunity for Growth Between Milwaukee and Madison
- Google News: Milwaukee expansion projects
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
