Business View Magazine - July 2023

156 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 10, ISSUE 7 capabilities under one roof than a typical company of its size. Applying such newer technologies as robotics, automation and laser-cutting and maintaining continuous improvement allow advanced technology to drive the company’s manufacturing processes. Batten spoke about NHI’s history and growth by acquisition, which eventually led to the company’s consolidation into its current facility. “We purchased a competitor, (Wisconsin-based) Myers Manufacturing, in 2006,” he revealed, adding that in 2011, NHI also purchased Phoenix Manufacturing, a distribution company. Batten also noted NHI’s international capabilities. “We do source a lot of products across the oceans,” he said. “We have a pretty extensive supply-chain reach.” Coupled with NHI’s domestic capabilities, this is a significant advantage, Batten said. Kerin noted how NHI sells to a diverse base of customers. “We sell to a lot of Fortune 100 and 500 companies,” said Kerin. “ We sell to a lot of mom and pops as well, which presents a lot of challenges and opportunities in itself.” But he added that the company’s recent years haven’t been without headwinds. In 2018, tariffs placed upon steel and aluminum presented problems. Other tariffs caused a lot of inflation. “But we’ve been able to perform better than the average supplier and certainly our direct competitors,” Kerin continued, “so that’s been helpful for us. We’ve been able to see a lot of growth and gain market- share throughout this time period as well.” NHI is currently working on many projects. Kerin said the company has more than the capacity to fulfill its customers’ needs and meet demand requirements.