The 2009 Waukesha County Chamber of Commerce Top Ten Small Businesses of the Year Awards were presented to a well-qualified group of businesses that are “defying the odds” against business growth in this economy. Winners were selected from a list of sixty-nine nominated companies, all of whom generated substantial growth in profits during 2008. This year’s winners are (click links below to view profiles):
- Advanced Waste Services, Inc.– West Allis
- Batzner Pest Management Inc.– New Berlin
- Brookfield Academy – Brookfield
- BuySeasons, Inc. – New Berlin
- Interstate Sealant & Concrete Inc.– Waukesha
- Kinateder Masonry – Waukesha
- Mantz Automation Inc. – Hartford
- MSI General Corp. – Nashotah
- Tailored Label Products Inc.– Menomonee Falls
- Velchek & Finger Roof Consulting & Services – Pewaukee
The winners were selected by an independent panel of judges based upon criteria that included financial growth, employee growth, customer focus, employee relations and community service.
“This is an occasion to celebrate the resiliency and entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses,” said Patti Wallner, president of the Waukesha County Chamber of Commerce. “Yes, these businesses are super stars, but they represent the determination, commitment and pride that define small businesses in our region. According to Waukesha County records, 85 percent of the county’s businesses are classified as small, having less than 500 employees. I believe that one of the main reasons that we have been somewhat protected from a harsh national economy is due to our large number of small businesses. They are able to demonstrate the agility to make decisions quickly when facing changing markets. This is largely due to fewer layers of management, product innovations, price controls, and staffing flexibility reflecting a true team mentality in the culture of these small business winners.”
“The winners of the Top Ten Small Businesses of the Year Awards exemplify excellence. They are not flinching in these challenging economic times. They are charging ahead,” said Dan Meyer, publisher of BizTimes Milwaukee. “There are many lessons to be learned from these business leaders. Key among them are how they treat all of their stakeholders – customers, employees, strategic partners and the community. We can all benefit by learning more about their practices, and we are proud to play the role of telling their stories.”
The leaders of the winning companies shared some of their best strategies for business growth at the awards luncheon, which was held at the Country Springs Hotel in Pewaukee.
Messages from the sponsors
What do these 10 companies all have in common? They are run by entrepreneurs who have assessed their risks in pursuit of opportunity, and have succeeded. No small feat in today’s economy. Congratulations to all of the winners!
The Schroeder Group’s innovative approach to providing legal representation has entrepreneurialism at its heart. Just like these businesses, we are nimble, knowledgeable, and dedicated to helping our clients realize their goals and objectives in the marketplace.
Our firm was built on three core values that continue to be the cornerstone of our business today: quality, value and service. We are committed to applying our uniquely personal and professional style to cultivate and maintain a successful business relationship with you.
We haven’t forgotten that not so long ago we walked into the marketplace with little more than the untested idea that a law firm could be different from larger firms, cost effective and, yes, entrepreneurial. That business philosophy drives each member of The Schroeder Group’s team. We demand nothing less of our top-flight attorneys and professional staff when a new client walks through the door or an existing client needs guidance.
As a previous Top Business of the Year award winner, we understand what it takes to walk down this path of success. So give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you continue on your successful journey.
– John Yentz, President, The Schroeder Group, S.C., Attorneys at Law
Humana is proud to once again sponsor the 2009 Top 10 Small Businesses of the Year awards program. We congratulate this year’s winners and their employees.
2008 brought many challenges to our area’s economy, and it’s a tremendous accomplishment to own a business and keep it growing during these trying times. One obstacle numerous small businesses face is the search for affordable health insurance. But now, small businesses in Southeastern Wisconsin have a reason to hope. A unique partnership between Humana and the Business Health Care Group, an organization dedicated to improving our health care system, is helping to move the market in the right direction.
Together, Humana and the Business Health Care Group are working to collaborate with employers, health care providers and consumers to obtain true health care value – the best quality at the best price. Humana and the Business Health Care Group are promoting prevention and wellness initiatives that encourage healthier lifestyles and workplace environments. We are also working with our partners to provide reliable cost information and quality of care for consumer use.
Humana’s Southeastern Wisconsin office is ready to provide guidance to help your business navigate the complexities of the health care system. Together, we can improve our health care system. Ask us how your company can get involved by contacting Humana at 1-800-825-9900 or www.humana.com, or visit www.businesshealthcaregroup.org.
– Kristine Seymour, President, Humana Wisconsin
