Window Maker Reopens Wisconsin Plant After Renovation

Jan. 5, 2010

Medford, Wis.-based Hurd Windows & Doors Inc. recently celebrated the reopening of its Medford wood-window manufacturing facility.

Josh Cable

A ribbon-cutting ceremony in December marked the completion of the company's multimillion-dollar renovation and consolidation of the facility, which began in June. Hurd recently was acquired by Medford-based HWD Acquisition Inc.

"Our renovation and consolidation is an important catalyst for the advancement and profitability of Hurd," said Dominic Truniger, president of Hurd. "This new space is a tangible result of our new ownership's vision and is just the start of more to come. We have a lot to be excited about at Hurd."

Hurd consolidated two Merrill, Wis., facilities into its Medford plant, saving operating expenditures for nearly 400,000 square feet and reducing its environmental footprint, according to the company.

As part of the renovation, the company repainted the walls and ceilings and installed new flooring and energy-efficient lighting. A new roof, a dust-collection system and new manufacturing equipment also were part of the renovation, according to Hurd.

"To greater improve the company's efficiencies and reduce operating costs, all manufacturing lines were reconfigured to reduce non-value added activity and simplify the manufacturing process," the company added.

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.