Scathain LLC
422 S. Fourth St., Milwaukee • www.scathain.com
Year Founded: 2008
Product or Service Offered: Scathain crafts artistic furnishings and functional accents with a focus on wood, metal and mirror. With the designers and the artisans working under the same roof, Scathain also offers a unique environment for custom creations to be made.
Owner: John McWilliam
Projected 2016 Revenue: $2.5 million
Target Clientele: Scathain’s clients are in hospitality or corporate settings. They range from boutique hotels to private residences, celebrity homes to local museums, corporate offices to fine dining establishments.
What has fueled your company’s growth?
“In the beginning, Scathain was fueled entirely by word-of- mouth marketing. We pride ourselves on our reliability, both in terms of customer service and impeccable craftsmanship. Because of that, we were able to acquire a steady stream of clients thanks to the organic conversations that took place. Since then, we have increased our formal marketing efforts to take it to the next level.”
What is the biggest obstacle to your company’s growth?
“The trickiest part of this business is balancing staff with capacity demands while trying to scale.”
Do you plan to make any changes to your company?
“While we won’t be forgoing our custom pieces, we will be putting a greater emphasis on launching product lines.”
Who are the business people you admire and why?
“Steve Kinewski from Brass Light Gallery. He has such sincere passion for his product, and he has a hands-on approach to management that doesn’t just keep his company afloat, but allows it to thrive.”
What is the outlook for your industry?
“There seems to be an inexhaustible list of opportunities in custom and production manufacturing. There is also a great void in reliable customer service. I am certain that our outlook is becoming exponentially more positive as we continue to position ourselves as leaders in our industry.”
What is your company’s most important growth strategy?
“We will continue to be on the lookout for key, long-term staff who will help us build a unique product and company culture.”
