Welcome to the October 23, 2020 Midlands Business Journal
Here is brief summary of our feature stories.
American Machine Works melds history with growth plans
by Richard D. Brown Whether the work order is for $1,000 in parts for a two-person machine shop or a Fortune 500 firm’s production line requiring more than $1 million worth of contract parts, the ownership team of Omaha-based American Machine Works credit melding the history of the 109-year-old business they own with a hefty investment in the latest technology for their continued success.
FBG Service Corporation’s 60 years marked by innovative solutions, employee ownership
by Michelle Leach Wayne Simmonds started Dust Tex in 1960, and the dust mop rental company has evolved into FBG Service Corporation, a national commercial cleaning and facilities management firm boasting almost 1,300 employee-owners, with more than 400 in the Omaha area alone.
Demo Lives captures growth in photomarket via nonprofit network, travel
by Becky McCarville Photographer Abiola Kosoko, owner of multimedia company Demo Lives, has worked with 40 to 50 clients this year alone — despite the slowdown in March due to the pandemic — and is poised for more growth. While the company specializes in photography, videography and marketing, Kosoko has talents in DJing, logo design, website design and other creative ventures. He is also the director of marketing and recruitment at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands.
Contractor Solutions debuts industry innovations, grows by supporting underground utility safety
by Michelle Leach When President Dave Hehr first started Contractor Solutions in Des Moines in 2006, the company had 35 trench boxes to protect utility employees and contractors as they completed underground work. Today, the firm boasts more than 100 trench boxes in stock across its locations in Des Moines and Gretna, and has bolstered offerings in numerous areas (notably, training) as it captures larger market share and competes with national brands.
