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Weinbrenner Shoe Company Earns Recognition as a Finalist for Manufacturer of the Year

Weinbrenner Shoe Company, based in Merrill, Wisconsin, has been nominated as one of 21 finalists for the prestigious Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY) award. This recognition is a testament to its dedication to quality, innovation, and employee engagement, stemming from over 130 years of experience in American-made footwear production.

A Distinguished Honor

The Manufacturer of the Year program, hosted annually by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC), celebrates companies that demonstrate excellence in various aspects of their operations. An independent panel will select four Grand Award winners across different categories—small, medium, large, and mega—during an awards ceremony set for February 20, 2025, at The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee.

Jeff Burns, the president of Weinbrenner, expressed gratitude for the nomination, stating, "It is an honor to be nominated for this prestigious award. Weinbrenner is one of the few companies still manufacturing footwear within the United States, and we take pride in our legacy here in Wisconsin."

Commitment to Local Manufacturing

Weinbrenner is not just resting on its laurels; the company is investing in its future. Recently, they broke ground on a new 70,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Marshfield, Wisconsin. This strategic move emphasizes their commitment to expanding operations and maintaining manufacturing excellence within the state.

Burns elaborated, "This nomination transcends being just an award; it highlights the outstanding contributions of our team and showcases the pride we take in our products. The journey of our company has been shaped by collaboration and a relentless focus on quality. These values have been central to Weinbrenner Shoe Company for generations."

Reviving a Legacy

Founded in 1892, Weinbrenner Shoe Company is renowned for its Thorogood® brand, which stands as a symbol of quality and innovation in work and safety footwear. Their unwavering dedication to craftsmanship has kept them at the forefront of an industry that has increasingly seen production shift overseas.

For over a century, Weinbrenner has remained committed to manufacturing in the U.S., ensuring that each pair of shoes reflects the company’s values of integrity and exceptional standards. With their local ties and passionate workforce, the company serves as an example of how traditional industries can thrive in modern markets.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming MOTY awards ceremony presents an exciting opportunity for the recognized companies not only to receive accolades but also to network and foster relationships that could enhance local manufacturing. With accountability to their employees and the community, Weinbrenner Shoe Company sets an inspiring benchmark for other manufacturers.

To explore more details about the Manufacturer of the Year awards and see other nominees, visit Wisconsin MOTY.

Weinbrenner’s story is one of resilience, workforce empowerment, and community engagement, making them a deserving finalist for this notable recognition.