Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Jobs stay in Webster with local sale of PowderTech Corporation

Stacey Traylor, Clyde Fosheim and Terry Traylor finalized the purchase of PowderTech Corporation in late May, stepping up to become entrepreneurs and keeping 16 jobs in Webster.

“Webster Area Development Corporation, Day County Champion Community and City of Webster support these entrepreneurs as they help Webster retain a local business and jobs, and make positive changes that will benefit the employees and Webster area,” said Melissa Fose, executive director of WADC and DCCC.

The transition has been smooth, with a new name—Glacial Lakes Finishing, Inc.—but no lag in production. All employees reapplied to stay with the business, and several outside applications were also received.

“Both customers and employees have been very receptive and positive during this transition period,” said Stacey Traylor, President of Glacial Lakes Finishing, Inc. “Current business has increased the past few days and customer forecasts are on the rise,” she added.

Glacial Lakes Finishing, Inc. took ownership June 1, starting with one part-time and 12 full-time employees in addition to the three’s management positions. The new owners hope to add 6-8 employees by the end of 2014.

“The new owners are not strangers to the metal finishing business, and most of you know them,” former owner, Ann Brown, wrote in a letter to all PowderTech customers.

The Traylors and Fosheim have a combined 29 years of experience in the powder coating business, with a wide range of skills that complement each other well. The business will offer powder coating, mechanical finishing, conversion coating, remanufacturing and sub-assembly services to its current and new customers in the Midwest.

“Our mission is to become an exceedingly competitive and profitable powder coating company, while developing highly skilled team members, and constantly working to improve quality,” S. Traylor said.