On Tuesday, February 18th, the Daviess County CEO Cohort had the privilege of visiting CornPro, where they were warmly welcomed by Kevin and Brian Frette. Founded by the Cornelius family, CornPro has built a reputation for producing top-tier trailers. Since acquiring the company in 2005, the Frettes have remained steadfast in their commitment to excellence, ensuring that CornPro continues to be recognized as "Premium/Top of the line" in trailer manufacturing.
Originally specializing in agricultural equipment, CornPro has evolved into a comprehensive trailer manufacturer, a testament to its adaptability and dedication to meeting the changing demands of the industry. During our visit, Kevin and Brian provided an in-depth look into their operations, guiding us through the bustling factory where their motto, "Strength Comes Standard," is evident in every trailer produced. This philosophy underscores their unwavering commitment to durability and reliability.
As the company has grown to a workforce of approximately 50 employees, Kevin emphasized the critical role of strong personnel in sustaining growth. He noted, "You can outgrow buildings and equipment, but you can't outgrow your employees," highlighting the importance of investing in a dedicated and skilled workforce.
One of CornPro’s key strategic decisions has been its dealer-driven sales model, inspired by the automotive industry. By exclusively selling through dealerships, the company has maintained high-quality standards and streamlined distribution, contributing to its impressive expansion over the past three years.
With growth and expansion, a particularly exciting addition to their operations is the introduction of a robotic welder, further enhancing efficiency and precision in production.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Kevin and Brian for their hospitality, tour of their incredible facility and for sharing their invaluable insights. Our visit to CornPro was an inspiring experience, offering a firsthand look at the dedication and innovation that drive success in the manufacturing industry.
