Reedsburg, Wis (August 26, 2024) – Hankscraft Inc., a global manufacturing company, is proud to celebrate its 75 years incorporated. Since 1949, Hankscraft has grown and evolved from an appliance and motor manufacturer to a multi-division contract manufacturing company. Hankscraft supports renowned brands across numerous industries.
To commemorate this special occasion, Hankscraft hosted an anniversary party on August 23, 2024. Valued employees and their family members, recent retirees, and community guests attended. Hankscraft AJS Tap Handles, a division of Hankscraft Inc., brought their staff from Random Lake, WI.
“Today is a terrific opportunity to celebrate Hankscraft’s contribution to the community and State. While cheese and beer are important Wisconsin products, just as important is Wisconsin’s deep heritage of manufacturing excellence. Hankscraft is proud to be part of that heritage.” said Jon Tatooles, CEO of Hankscraft Inc.
Hankscraft’s History
In 1920, Marshall Hanks, an electrical engineer and inventor, founded Hankscraft. He patented and sold the electric egg, adding other household appliances to the Hankscraft product line after the 1930’s. Hanks went on to secure more than 50 patents in his lifetime.
In 1949, Hankscraft relocated from Madison to Reedsburg, WI, and became incorporated as “Hankscraft Motors.” The company expanded into small motors, thanks to Sheldon Wengel’s invention and influence on the company. Wengel joined Hankscraft in 1950, founding the company’s motors division. This led to Hankscraft being a leader in custom point-of-purchase display motor production.
Because of Hankscraft’s prominence in baby-related household appliances, Gerber Products company of Freemont, MI purchased Hankscraft in 1970. In 1992, Hankscraft relocated their motor division to their current headquarters location on Wengel Drive in Reedsburg, WI.
Just a few years later in 1996, senior management members of Hankscraft’s motors division purchased it from Gerber. This was followed by growth of Hankscraft’s AC and DC motor manufacturing, as well as electronics PCBs and plastics.
Nearing and turning the 21st century, key moments in Hankscraft’s story include the acquisition of Hankscraft AJS Tap Handles, building a global manufacturing facility in Suzhou, China, and establishing Hankscraft Runxin, a joint venture in the water treatment industry. Hankscraft’s skilled staff, customer-centric approach and breadth of full-service contract manufacturing options add value for customers around the globe.
Community and Industry Impact
Hankscraft is a longstanding business and contributor to the Reedsburg community. They have been a primary employer over its 75 years of incorporation. The company supports local events and fundraisers, including donating over $45,000 in scholarships for local graduating high school students over the past nine years. Dating back to 1951, Hankscraft sponsored the first sanctioned Little League team, originating in Reedsburg, Wisconsin.
Over the past 75 years, Hankscraft has established themselves as a valuable resource in contract manufacturing. They specialize in seamless program management and product development for their customers. This anniversary is a time to reflect on past achievements, but also to recognize the opportunities on the horizon. To ensure a bright future, the company remains committed to facilitating innovative, customer-focused and value-added services to its global clientele.