HCo 2.0 

July 30th, 2024

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HCo 2.0 Official Press Release

Hansen & Company Woodworks (HCo) is marking its 20th anniversary with a significant expansion, increasing its casework manufacturing capacity by a staggering 400%. The jump from 150 to 500 cabinets per day is not just HCo scaling up its operations: it’s revolutionizing the industry standard. Reflecting HCo’s unwavering commitment to American Manufacturing, Automation, Process, and Efficiency. The $20 million investment will inaugurate a state-of-the-art 92,000 square foot facility, boasting what may be the most Fully Automated Frameless Batch One Cabinet Line in North America. Industry Leading technology enables cabinet parts to move seamlessly through the production line with minimal human intervention until they reach the pre-assembly stage.

“We are thrilled to announce this significant leap that HCo 2.0 is for the Woodworking Industry through the integration of advanced automation and enhanced team expertise” said Adam Hansen, President and Founder of Hansen & Company Woodworks, which has been in operation since 2004.

While the expansion will create at least 6 new jobs, HCo’s vision extends beyond mere job creation. The focus is on elevating the value of work for employees, enabling them to earn more for themselves and their families. Achieving this involves developing a workforce skilled in industrial engineering, robotics, process engineering, and technical manufacturing— Skills integral to HCo’s 2.0 factory. Aligned with this vision, HCo is investing over $120,000 in educational programs and training through partnerships with local higher education providers. The advanced skills acquired will create an opportunity for a 20% wage increase.

“We’re excited to watch the team thrive in their new roles and look forward to expanding the team as we seek local talent,” said Jeff Bergstrom, Production Manager.

HCo’s integration of seven state-of-the-art robots into its manufacturing process is a leap into the future of industrial automation for the caseworks industry. Automation is set to take over the machine-tending and repetitive tasks within the production line, the robots will perform the monotonous tasks, freeing up HCo’s skilled workforce to focus on the more complex and creative aspects of the cabinet making process. HCo’s forward-thinking approach is not just about keeping pace with industry trends; it’s about setting them. The seven robots are more than mere machines; they represent the beginning of a new era in the cabinet industry, where automation leads to tangible improvements in safety, product quality, production capacity, and consistency in manufacturing.

HCo’s strategic consolidation from five locations to two is a significant move towards streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. This transition is not just a logistical change; it represents a thoughtful approach to sustainable growth and resource management. By centralizing operations, HCo is poised to optimize production workflows, reduce overhead costs, and improve communication channels within the company.

“We’re proud to continue our legacy in St. Joseph, MN, where we’ve been rooted for 19 of our 20 years,” said Adam. The company expresses profound gratitude for the unwavering support and enthusiasm from Mayor Rick Schultz, City Administrator David Murphy, Nate Keller the Community Development Director, the St Joseph City Council, and Bremer Bank. Their collective efforts have been paramount in HCo’s decision to continue growing in the St. Joseph community. HCo takes pride in contributing to St. Joseph’s growth and providing exceptional employment opportunities in the region.

Currently serving the Class A Multi-Family Market mostly in Minnesota, HCo has also seen success in extending its reach beyond state lines. This expansion is not just a milestone but a springboard for HCo to elevate its presence in the national market, promising an exciting future for the company, its employees, and the community it calls home.

Hansen & Company’s business model, which involves selling directly to General Contractors, has been a cornerstone of its operational strategy. Ensuring a streamlined process fosters close relationships with Architects, Interior Designers, Project Managers and Jobsite Personnel. The direct sales approach has enabled clear communication, fast response times, and a deep understanding of client needs, all contributing to one of their core value of “Removing Stress”. “As we expand the markets we serve we will explore options of a Nationwide Dealer Network that reenforces our close connection to the decision makers and the people doing the work to build the properties that our cabinets will call home” says Adam.

“Alongside the coming online of our new HCo 2.0 factory we will also be releasing an entirely new designed cabinet along with 7 new features that are industry leading.“

Hansen & Company also provides Architectural Millwork, Stone Countertop Fabrication, Metalworks & Upholstery for commercial properties throughout the Midwest. Stay updated and follow our journey at HCo 2.0 by following us on Instagram @hcowoodworks.

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