To explore what makes family businesses resilient and sustainable across generations, Family Business Alliance invited three seasoned leaders to share their insights on legacy, innovation, governance, and next-gen readiness.

• Betsey Fortoulis, Director of Partnerships and Development, Family Business Advisor at InnerWill
• Robin Burns, Director, Family Business Alliance
• Randy Boss, Co-founder of Emerge Apps and Chairman, Family Business Alliance

Q: From your research and experience, what are some of the most significant, often unseen, strengths that family ownership brings to a business?

Robin Burns—For many, business is an extension of the family.  This emotional connection leads to extraordinary levels of dedication, especially during difficult times. Unlike corporate environments, family members are more likely to make personal sacrifices, show up on the “front lines,” and roll up their sleeves to ensure success. This deep-rooted loyalty can also extend to their employees. When employees see family members committed to the business in the day-to-day, they often develop a strong sense of belonging and loyalty themselves.

Betsey Fortoulis—In a rapidly changing world, the family often represents a source of consistency and continuity in a family enterprise, providing a strong foundation and a long-term perspective. This can be particularly valuable as external factors and market conditions shift, offering a stable element amidst the turbulence and ambiguity.

Values also have a multigenerational impact. We pass them on to our children, and our children’s children. Therefore, when families align around values and shared purpose, they have secure building blocks for the next generation to honor the legacy of the founder while at the same time having the freedom to adapt and innovate to ensure continued business success during changing times.

Randy Boss—The strength of family business often lies beneath the surface. There’s a level of commitment, trust, and shared purpose that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. You’re not just building something for short-term gain—you’re creating something that matters to the people you care about most. That long-term mindset shapes how decisions are made, how employees are treated, and how risks are taken. At Emerge Apps, our values guide us—not just strategy.

Q: We often hear about the “founder’s syndrome” or the challenges of subsequent generations living up to a legacy. How can current leaders, both family and non-family, work to build a sustainable future that honors the past yet adapts to new realities? 

Robin Burns—Founders are often by nature visionary entrepreneurs who built their companies from the ground up, taking significant risks to provide for their families. Their legacy is not only in the enterprise they created but in the values, resilience, and ingenuity they demonstrated.  To honor this legacy, current leaders should embrace an entrepreneurial mindset – they need to see themselves not as the caretaker – but as the new founder. By investing in innovation and  demonstrating a willingness to take calculated risks – they can honor the original spirit of the business as well as propel it forward.   Also, these new leaders should formalize and adopt the core values that guided the founder. By clearly articulating and embedding these values into the company culture – they become the compass for future decision making and evolving business strategies.

Betsey Fortoulis—Many family business leaders are reluctant to shift from a personal relationship with the founder to a more formal relationship with a successor. Most of these leaders have developed unique ties with the founder that extend well beyond the parameters of a typical working relationship.  We would encourage leaders to ensure that their strategy is focused at the enterprise level, rather than at just the business level. The three circles (Ownership, Family, Business) are interconnected and their missions, visions, values, and goals should be aligned, consistent and mutually supportive. 

Randy Boss—Founders have to learn to let go—but not disappear. That’s a tension we all face. It’s about making room for the next generation to lead while still being available as a mentor and sounding board. I’ve found that when you focus more on principles than control, the business can grow beyond you. It’s not about preserving the past exactly as it was—it’s about honoring it while giving others permission to evolve it.

Q: The “next generation” often has different perspectives and aspirations. What do you see as emerging trends or concerns from this next generation?

Robin Burns—Technological advancements continue to interface with the business community at an unprecedented and accelerated pace.  Recent studies from next-generation leaders continue to express concern about whether their organizations are equipped to adjust and adopt to meet industry innovation. As a result, there’s a sense of urgency to not just catch up, but to build a future-ready foundation that can adapt to constant change through digital infrastructure and data-driven decision-making.

Betsey Fortoulis—The pace of change is accelerating, particularly in the realm of technology and global interconnectedness. AI is here, and how to leverage it ethically and effectively is a big concern/opportunity.  There is also a much stronger focus on well-being and mental health.  How do we reward productivity over suffering? Finally, the next gen is very focused on purpose-driven work – making it more important than ever to clarify an organization’s mission, vision, and values and align them with the strategy, leadership competencies, and processes.

Randy Boss—They see the world differently—and that’s a good thing. The next generation wants purpose, balance, and a workplace that reflects their values. They’re not afraid to challenge tradition if it means better alignment with people and impact. What’s encouraging is that they’re not rejecting the business—they’re just asking, “How can we do this better?” At Emerge Apps, my sons are constantly pushing for better tools, more clarity, and a more flexible approach to work.

Q: It appears like the external and economic disrupters continue to challenge businesses. What internal strengths or strategies can help them to adapt and thrive?

Robin Burns—Look back to move forward. From the early startup days, your family business has never shied away from challenges. Reflect on the tough times—what obstacles did you face, and how did your family and the business respond? What strategies proved effective? How did you adapt and realign the organization to overcome adversity? Many of those same approaches can be applied again as you stay committed to the long game.

Betsey Fortoulis—Back to the fundamentals…what’s your “why”? Leaning into the family legacy and the family as a source of consistency during disruption can be the beacon.  When the “why” is clearly defined, the “how” can be easily adapted.

Randy Boss—You can’t control external disruption, but you can strengthen your foundation. Open communication, trust between generations, and a shared vision make it easier to pivot when things change. It’s also about being willing to challenge the status quo—even if that status quo came from you. At Emerge Apps, we’ve always focused on learning fast, staying close to the customer, and being willing to evolve.

Q: Looking ahead, what do you believe is the most critical area family-owned businesses in West Michigan and beyond should be focusing on to ensure their long-term sustainability and success?

Robin Burns—Engagement!  Studies demonstrate that legacy and connection to business is a predominant reason for the next generation to join the family business.  Many second and third generation organizations do not have formal structures in place.  Family meetings and governance programs are the ideal platform to build an engaged next generation (even as young as middle school and high school).  Formal governance creates a space to understand family history, mission, and values.  Next generation members can begin to build an identity of ownership and accountability to the members of the family and the business.

Betsey Fortoulis—Stay connected with your peers.  Family Business Alliance is such an invaluable resource for family-owned businesses in West Michigan and beyond.  Learn from each other and share what’s working and not – build a bigger table, not a higher fence.

Randy Boss—Succession and leadership development—no question. Too many businesses stall because they wait too long to plan for transition. It’s not just about choosing the next leader; it’s about building a leadership mindset throughout the family and the company. That takes time, structure, and a willingness to have honest conversations. The earlier you start, the better your chances of sustaining success across generations.

Q: What do you identify as an emerging trend in family business organizations?

Robin Burns—In a rich M&A market, family business organizations are proactively acquiring  other family firms to build scale and enhance service offerings.  One key predictor of success in acquisitions is acquiring an organization with a similar culture. When values, leadership styles, and long-term vision align, integration is a smooth and sustainable way for growth. We’re seeing this trend not only in local markets but across a national level, as family businesses look beyond their regions to find like-minded partners that support long-term strategic goals.

Betsey Fortoulis—Technology and the digital landscape to help honor family legacies and impact communities for the better.

Randy Boss—Families are becoming more intentional—more governance, more communication, and more willingness to bring in outside perspectives. I’m also seeing a rise in emotional intelligence—people talking about things like identity, conflict, and personal growth, not just ownership and operations. That’s a healthy shift. Families that grow stronger together build businesses that are better equipped to last.

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This content has been edited for length and clarity. Email fba@fbagr.org if you are interested in exploring feature opportunities.

Family Business Alliance strives to help family businesses with the tools, resources, and connections to help businesses succeed. Learn more about our resources including Leading Forward, Succeeding in Succession, and Navigating Governance that help to advance family business in our community.

The founder of Master Finish didn’t start in manufacturing—he started in a bakery. John Mulder, the son of a Dutch immigrant, spent his days shaping dough in his father’s shop and his nights in the basement of a Grand Rapids auto dealership, deburring metal parts by hand. What began with window cranks and door handles turned into something bigger: a chrome plating business built on process, precision, and a mindset that still drives the company 66 years later.

John’s son Dale joined the company in 1977, bringing both engineering expertise and a values-driven approach to the business. Dale called each plating process a “recipe”—a nod to his father’s baking roots and his own belief in getting every step right. Today, Master Finish is led by brothers John Mulder, President, and Aaron Mulder, CEO—the third generation to carry the family business forward.

“When we went camping, our dad instilled in us this principle: leave it better than you found it,” the brothers recall. “That’s how Dale ran Master Finish—and that’s how we run the company today.”

With defined roles and a shared commitment to core principles, John and Aaron modernized operations while preserving the company’s foundation of teamwork, honesty, innovation, and service.

“We were able to spend a great deal of time working with our dad,” John said. “He immediately helped us determine how to carve out areas of the business where our strengths could be put to use.”

That wisdom set the stage for their next step. Nearly ten years ago, they implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to provide a framework for growth, clarity, and accountability. “EOS has been a great way for us to keep progressing and improving,” Aaron said.

But process is only part of the story. “We are most proud of our team, the men and women that we call part of the Master Finish family,” John said. “We find ways to celebrate together, and we suffer and mourn together.”

That sense of connection extends beyond the shop floor. The brothers are long-time participants in the Family Business Alliance and Grand Rapids Chamber communities they say play a vital role in helping them grow as leaders.

“Business is never conducted in a vacuum,” John said. “We all need a great network of vendors, customers, and service suppliers to succeed. There’s great value in the educational events offered by FBA and the Chamber. They help us stay informed, understand current business conditions, and connect with great people in the broader business community.”

The brothers emphasize the value of FBA peer groups, where they meet monthly with other family business leaders to navigate challenges, trade insights, and stay accountable. Far from superficial networking, these closed-door sessions foster honest discussions on leadership pressures, strategic shifts, and personal growth. For John and Aaron, the benefit is mutual: the chance not only to gain perspective—but to offer it. 

“You’re rarely the only one trying to solve a problem,” John said. “The groups brainstorm options that can help solve it collectively, for everyone involved. Creating a network of others who help you on your path—and whom you help on theirs—makes the journey far better and more effective.”

That same collaborative mindset fuels how they run the business, always looking for smarter, safer ways to evolve. Master Finish has long been ahead of the curve in sustainable metal finishing, recycling all plating waste and using trivalent chrome for over a decade to reduce environmental impact and improve workplace safety.

“Trivalent chrome is a much more beneficial process due to the reduced environmental impact and improved safety of the chemistry,” John said.

One area of growing interest is black chrome—a sleek, high-end finish gaining traction in the automotive industry, supporting both design flexibility and cleaner chemistry.

While today’s economic circumstances bring uncertainty, particularly around tariffs and shifting global production, the Mulders remain optimistic. “We’re seeing great new opportunities to bid on programs historically made overseas,” they said. “But we’re also seeing the other side of the coin—many are delaying launch decisions while there’s still a lot to be determined. It’s really a strange time in America.”

Through it all, John and Aaron lead with discipline—steady, thoughtful, and precise. From a basement startup to a global supplier, Master Finish proves that legacy isn’t just something you inherit. It’s something you build—layer by layer.

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This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Email fba@fbagr.org if you are interested in exploring feature opportunities.

Family Business Alliance strives to help family businesses with the tools, resources, and connections to help businesses succeed. Learn more about our resources including Leading Forward, Succeeding in Succession, and Navigating Governance that help to advance family business in our community.

Dear Springboard:

“It feels like things are moving fast and the future is uncertain. I struggle with all this change and so does my team. What can I do to help them survive and ideally thrive in today’s environment?”

Signed me,

A Little Overwhelmed

Dear ALO:

We’ve looked at this before and examined the world through the VUCA lens – volatile, uncertain, chaotic and ambiguous. That perspective is still relevant.

For a fresh look, I’ve just completed a six-week online course led by Gabriella Kellerman. She and Marty Seligman, the creator of positive psychology, co-authored the book Tomorrowmind and the course was based on the book.

The premise of the course was to offer strategies to cope with the continually accelerating change we are living with today.

Their colleague John Seeley Brown likened today’s challenges to being in a kayak in whitewater rapids – immersed in a chaotic and relentless environment that requires us to frequently assess and respond to an ever-changing flow. With no let up.

Contrast the kayak in whitewater rapids to the work life of much earlier generations’ steady journey on a steamship (stable and predictable) and more recent workforces’ sailing (requiring some agility and adaptability). After extensive research, the authors have proposed five essential skills for thriving – captured in the acronym PRISM – Prospection, Resilience, Innovation, Social Connection and Mattering.

Offering a little optimism, it’s noted these are not innate and can be developed.

In one sense, we all need to strengthen our capacity for agility – to adapt to new circumstances.

Foster Resilience.

It is the ability to recover from setbacks and maintain well-being amidst adversity. We start with resilience because it provides a foundation for adaptability. Emotional regulation is one of its most important dimensions and so emotional intelligence is important.

Leaders can encourage self-awareness and self-compassion within their teams to create a culture where setbacks are seen as opportunities for learning rather than failures.  

Cultivate Creativity to Drive Innovation.

Creativity is essential for solving today’s complex problems in our unpredictable world.  

Leaders can support creative thinking by nurturing a psychologically safe environment to experiment without fear of failure. Plus, they can reward risk taking and unconventional thinking.

Strengthen Social Connections.

Strong relationships enhance collaboration, employee engagement and productivity. We know having a best friend at work boosts our sense of wellbeing. And, we all have a basic need to be seen and heard. 

Leaders can foster an inclusive culture and sense of belonging, where every voice is valued.  Also, they can promote mentorship programs that help to build trust – the oxygen of relationships.  

The authors also cite a study that showed the importance of doing service. A test group of people who took a few minutes to help someone in need, when they were already feeling overwhelmed and time-pressured, felt better and a little recharged afterward.  

So, getting out of themselves and being useful was worth the extra effort. That encourages the practical side of generosity even when someone feels like they are just surviving.  

Instill a Sense of Mattering.  

Employees who feel their work makes a difference are more engaged and motivated. 

Mattering is even stronger than meaning.  To know one’s effort has meaning is the bricklayer not building just a wall, but part of a cathedral. To believe his particular brick laying matters is for him to believe he is valued as an individual.  

Leaders can clearly communicate how individual roles contribute to larger organizational roles.  Building on that, celebrate achievements that align with shared values and provide feedback that highlights the impact of individual employees’ efforts.  

Empower Prospection.

The authors call this the meta-skill for today’s challenges. Prospection is the ability to look ahead, anticipate possible outcomes and envision multiple future scenarios.

While we want to have a positive outlook, simply considering the possibilities of negative outcomes gives us a chance to develop different responses ahead of time and be ready to act effectively.

Leaders can offer training in strategic foresight and scenario planning. Also, they can encourage transparency and openness in considering potential challenges, and opportunities. It is healthy to deal with today’s problems and acknowledge the possibility of future issues.  

We haven’t acknowledged the 900 lb. gorilla — the further advancement of AI and its integration into our everyday lives both at work and home.   Many experts believe artificial general intelligence, or A.G.I., can become reality within a few years. It is usually defined as something like “a general-purpose A.I. system that can do almost all cognitive tasks a human can do.” It represents a significant jump in capability from today’s levels.  

So, more big change is coming.   

A Darwinian advantage (a little exaggeration for impact!) will go to those who: are agile and resilient; have a robust network of relationships; are open to experimenting and learning: are proactive in considering future possibilities and developing contingencies; and believe that they as individuals and their contributions matter.  

Inherent in all of this is the necessity to get better at letting go.  

Family Business Alliance strives to help family businesses with the tools, resources, and connections to help businesses succeed. Learn more about our resources including Leading Forward, Succeeding in Succession, and Navigating Governance that help to advance family business in our community.

For more than a century, King Milling Company has turned American wheat into flour—and family legacy into lasting enterprise. Now led by the fifth generation of the Doyle family, the Lowell-based company remains one of the oldest continuously operating family-owned flour mills in the country.

Flour, Family, and Five Generations in Lowell

As King Milling celebrates its 135th anniversary, fifth-generation leaders Patrick and Regan Doyle—alongside fourth-generation family members Steve, Jim, and Brian Doyle—reflect on their family’s history, values, and vision for the future.

Today, it’s also the largest flour producer in Michigan—and ranks among the top 15 nationwide, with four mills producing over 2.5 million pounds of flour daily. That scale expanded significantly in 2024 with the completion of a six-floor mill and state-of-the-art grain handling facility, boosting output and positioning King Milling for the next era of growth.

Roughly 40 percent of the company’s wheat—used to produce soft flour for pastries and cookies—is grown in Michigan. The rest, harder wheat varieties for bread and pizza dough, comes from states like Kansas and the Dakotas. While the grain travels far, the company itself has never strayed from the community where it began.

“Lowell’s home to us,” said Patrick Doyle, the company’s president. “We live here. We work here, and we’ve always tried to do things the right way—with our people, our community, and the customers we serve.”

From Fire to Flourishing

Founded in 1890, King Milling remains under family ownership for five generations. The business began with the acquisition of the bankrupt Superior Mill on the west side of Lowell by Francis King and partners, though the site itself had milled grain since the 1840s.

The Doyle family joined King Milling in 1900, and by the 1930s had taken full control. Steady modernization followed—even through crisis.
“We had a fire in the 1940s during World War II,” recalled Jim Doyle, former president and now chairman. “To rebuild, our grandfather had to take a train to the War Department in Washington, D.C., just to requisition enough steel—because it was all going into bullets.”

The new concrete mill opened in 1945. Ten days later, William Doyle—the driving force behind the rebuild—died suddenly. His sons, King and Mike, took over. King, then serving in the Pacific, came home on emergency leave to help stabilize the business.

“They could’ve walked away,” said Patrick Doyle. “But they pushed forward. That decision defined who we are.”

Progress with a Purpose

Progress at King Milling is not accidental. The company’s reputation for durability is built on foresight and discipline.

“We’ve never taken shortcuts,” said Patrick Doyle. “That’s just not how we do things.”

After the 1943 fire, William Doyle rebuilt the facility with the most advanced milling technology of its time. By the 1960s, King Milling was among the first in the U.S. to adopt pneumatic elevators. Automation followed in the 1980s, and the company introduced its proprietary Ceres® line, extending flour shelf life through enzyme control.

“From the beginning, we’ve looked for ways to do things better,” said Steve Doyle, senior vice president. “That mindset is what’s kept us competitive for 135 years.”

Innovation continued into 2023, when the company opened its newest facility, the D-Mill, increasing daily white flour capacity to 21,000 hundredweights (cwt), with total output—including whole wheat—reaching 25,000 cwt. As output increased, so did the need for speed and scale.

“We built a system to load 50,000 pounds of flour into a trailer in just five minutes,” said Patrick Doyle. “Other mills had done that—but we were the first to engineer a way to load multiple trailers from a single bin.”

Problem-solving at that level isn’t just about efficiency, it reflects a broader mindset.
“We’re always looking at what’s next—not just for us, but for our customers,” Patrick added. “That’s how we stay ahead.”

The Golden Rule

At King Milling, fairness, respect, and community involvement remain central to how the business is run.
“We try to follow the golden rule—treat people the way we want to be treated,” said Patrick.

King Milling supports numerous civic projects in Lowell—from sponsoring the rebuild of a major playground to volunteering time and resources at the local food pantry. Family members also serve on boards including the Rotary Club, Downtown Development Authority, and Historic District Commission.

“We’re integrated here,” said Steve. “We’re not just a business in Lowell—we’re part of the community”
That sense of connection runs deep inside the mill, too.

“We’re proud of our employees’ longevity,” said Steve Doyle. “We have 63 people here, and we know each one personally. They feel like family. Many have been with us a long time—which we hope reflects the respect we have for each of them.”

Advancing the Legacy

As King Milling charts its next century, the fifth generation is already carrying the load.

“We’re in the process of handing things off to the next generation,” said Jim Doyle. “They’re doing the heavy lifting now.”

That continuity is intentional. Patrick and Regan Doyle have worked across nearly every part of the business for more than two decades. Michael Doyle is doing the same. The handoff is deliberate, measured—and entirely on brand.

With its values intact, operations expanding, and a leadership pipeline firmly in place, King Milling isn’t just celebrating 135 years in business, it’s steadily shaping the future of the industry it helped define.

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This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Email fba@fbagr.org if you are interested in exploring feature opportunities.

Family Business Alliance strives to help family businesses with the tools, resources, and connections to help businesses succeed. Learn more about our resources including Leading Forward, Succeeding in Succession, and Navigating Governance that help to advance family business in our community.

Seven House Members Meet with Attendees to Hear Critical Issues affecting Family-Owned Businesses; New Research Revealed

Recently, I spent several days on Capitol Hill attending this year’s first event with members of the Congressional Family Business Caucus.

Over 70 family business leaders and others attended the gathering, along with seven Congressional House Members and all this as the country was on the verge of having no budget, the stock market shrinking, and new tariffs being added, or dropped, daily.

The Congressional Family Business Caucus was formed three years ago and is a bipartisan, educational Caucus intended to bring awareness to the issues facing family-owned businesses. in the Michigan, and throughout the country.

This meeting was focused on women-owned family businesses and featured eight women-owned family business owners, as well as presentations on latest research from our Family Enterprise USA Annual Family Business Survey, and new consumer attitude research from our chief communications strategist and pollster, Dr. Frank Luntz.

The seven House members who stopped by to speak with, or greet, the attendees were Rep. Carol Miller (R-WV), Stacey Plaskett, (D-VI-AL), Brad Sherman, (D-CA), and Brad Schneider, (D-Ill). The others who attended and listened to family-owned business stories were Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN), Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN).

Last year, the Caucus was co-chaired by Reps. Jodey Arrington (R-Texas), Brad Schneider (D-Ill.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas). It has approximately 50 members and, with each new Congress it is hopeful that co-chairs will be announced soon.

This meeting was designed to educate members of Congress on the strength of women-owned family businesses, and the special challenges they face.

Women-owned businesses represent nearly 40% of all U.S. businesses — more than 14 million businesses in total – and account for $2.7 trillion in revenue, according to Wells Fargo Bank’s 2024 “Impact of Women-Owned Business Report.” 

The women-owned family businesses that spoke at the meeting started with Debbie McKee, the namesake of Little Debbie Cakes, based in Chattanooga, Tenn.  She was followed by Kimberly Smith, President of Pipeline Development Company, Strongsville, Ohio, Angela Simmons, owner and manager of ABS Legacy Partners, and Policy and Taxation Group Board member, and Rosana Biondo, President, Mark One, in Kansas City.

These speakers were followed by Cheryl Osborn, founder of Casco Contractors, Irvine, Calif., Meghan Hanna, Evolve Wellness, based in Orange County, Calif., Bridget Herdman, Herdman Architecture & Design, Corona del Mar, Calif., and Junette McCarthy of McCarthy Wealth, Newport Beach, Calif.

Others who spoke at the event were Ken Monroe, President of Holt of California, Stockton, California, and Robert Mancuso, Chief Executive Officer, Capri Capital Partners, Palm Beach, Florida.

Off and Running

One of the main features of the Congressional Family Business Caucus is to get a reading on the current political “state of play” on Capitol Hill and then to meet with specific House Members in their chambers.

The starting point in understanding how Congress works is to get to know the new Members of Congress, many of which were not in office when the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was passed.

Russ Sullivan and Mark Warren of the law and government relations firm, Brownstein, detailed the new players in town, while Caren Street and Michael Hawthorne, of Squire Patton Boggs, another top law and government relations firm, discussed how best to deliver key family-owned business messages across to their House Members.

New Family-owned Business Research

Attendees were also privy to preliminary research results from our annual national study of family businesses.

The survey once again showed family-owned businesses, like those in Michigan, survive better than most businesses. Results showed that 81% have been in business for 20 years or more, and 31% have been in business for between 50 and 100 years.

In addition, 90% of family-owned businesses pay their employees above average or average wages and benefits, with 47% paying above average.

When it comes to the critical tax policies affecting America’s family-owned businesses, the most concern centers on high income taxes.

The survey found 47% mentioned personal income taxes as their number one most important issue or concern. This is a 15% jump from our survey last year, which had 41% of respondents saying personal income tax rates were a top concern.

The second most important issue was the Estate, or Death, Tax, which 19% of respondents said was their number one worry, the same as last year.

The concern over Capital Gains remained steady at 12% and was ranked third as a top concern. Last year, the survey found 13% mentioning this as a most important issue.

High Trust Factor

In another survey, 1,000 consumers were polled for Family Enterprise USA by our communications expert, Dr. Frank Luntz.

Highlights from this report revealed family-owned businesses are 78% more trusted by consumers than regular corporations.

The survey also found the American Dream lives on with family-owned businesses.

The Luntz survey found that 91% of respondents believe family-owned businesses are what’s great about America, that is, “the idea that you can start something from nothing and pass it on to the next generation.”

The most important finding in this survey might be that American’s agree that it is “unfair that family-owned businesses pay a higher tax rate than regular corporations.”

When asked this question, 84% agreed with the premise that “family-owned businesses should not have to pay more in taxes than corporations.”

To those who attended this first of three meetings on Capitol Hill, the one clear message was: you must engage with your legislative leaders on a personal, one-to-one basis if you want to be heard.

There is nothing stronger than looking your representative in the eye, in their office, on their turf, and telling them what is important to you, the taxpayer, and a family-owned business leader in their district. 

They will listen.

Pat Soldano, President of Family Enterprise USA, and the Policy Taxation Group, both are non-partisan organizations advocating for family enterprises of all sizes. Both groups are organizers of the Congressional Family Business Caucus and of the Family Enterprise USA Annual Family Business Survey.

Family Business Alliance strives to help family businesses with the tools, resources, and connections to help businesses succeed. Learn more about our resources including Leading Forward, Succeeding in Succession, and Navigating Governance that help to advance family business in our community.

As Swisslane Farms celebrates its 110th anniversary, we sat down with fourth generation cousins Annie Link and Matthew Oesch. Along with Tom Oesch Jr., Matt and Annie are steering the family business into its next century with a focus on innovation, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

“We want to get to 200 years, at least,” Annie says. “It’s about honoring the past—but not standing still.”

A Century-Long Foundation

To understand where Swisslane is going, you have to know where it began.

In 1904, 16-year-old Fredrick Oesch, an orphaned immigrant with a dream, left Switzerland for America with a plan: own land and build something lasting. He started as a farmhand at the Wingeier family farm in Alto, Michigan. In 1915, he married Lucy Wingeier, a local farmer’s daughter, and bought 91 acres of land that became the foundation of Swisslane Farms.

By the 1930s, the operation had already traded hand milking for vacuum-powered pipeline systems—an early sign that innovation would always be part of the business model.

Fredrick’s son Joe stayed on, eventually taking over and guiding the farm through decades of change. When Joe’s sons—Fred, Jeff, and Tom—stepped into leadership, the family formalized a partnership in 1981. Amid the 1980s farm crisis, they hand-built a 12-unit milking parlor from salvaged parts—an investment that kept the business afloat. By 1999, a major herd expansion pushed Swisslane past 1,000 cows and into long-term economic viability. 

In time, Tom’s sons—Tom Jr. and Matt—and Fred’s daughter, Annie—representing the farm’s fourth generation—stepped into leadership, each taking on defined roles. Annie leads human resources and public engagement, Matt, as CEO, manages efficiency and profitability, and Tom, as Visionary, drives innovation and long-term goals.

Modern Milking, Timeless Values

Today, their total operation milks roughly 5,500 cows and raises 4,400 heifers as replacements, while farming 5,000 acres of corn and soybeans to feed the herd. The operation includes four milking centers across Alto and Battle Creek and a team of 86 employees—making it a large, complex business by any measure.

“Our goal is to be 10,000 cows by 2032,” Matt says. “It’s about sustainability and using scale to lower costs of production while protecting the environment.”

More than 1,500 cows file into the milking parlor—not once, but three times a day. 

As fourth-generation leaders, Annie, Matt, and Tom inherited more than a farm—they took on the challenge of modernizing a legacy. In 2010, Swisslane invested in robotic milking, a leap that redefined herd management and labor models. The technology offered key insights but proved costly and tough to scale. The farm has since stepped back—but sees future potential as the tech and economics catch up.

The robotics era marked more than a shift in equipment—it sparked a deeper conversation revisiting the past and exploring its future. Matt helped distill what mattered most: six core values that now guide the business. “It gives us a roadmap,” Annie says.  

Swisslane Farms’ Core Values 

God-honoring conduct 

Thinking light years ahead 

Focus on the cows 

Turning a nickel into a dime 

Making hay while the sun shines 

Becoming productive people 

Those values were tested early. In 2015, a prolonged dairy slump forced Swisslane to rethink nearly every part of the business. “It was our own version of the ’80s,” Matt said. “We had to dig in and rethink everything.”

Today, those principles shape hiring, onboarding, accountability, and long-term planning. “We try to make them easy to remember and apply every day,” Annie says. “Each one has a hero and a story behind it.”

By 2021, Swisslane made a bold expansion into Battle Creek, acquiring leased facilities from retiring farmers without successors. The move added complexity and herd size—and underscored the importance of strong systems and culture to support growth. 

The Cow is King

“Cows are my favorite animal,” Annie says.

“They take things we can’t eat—byproducts like corn cobs or cottonseed—and turn them into milk, cheese, and ice cream. They give us organic fertilizer, make renewable energy, and at the end of their lives, they still enter the food system as beef. They just keep on giving.”

Swisslane cows live in free-style barns where they move freely, access fresh feed and water, and rest as needed. A consistent, low-stress environment is central to how the farm operates. “They need routine,” Annie says. “Anything that causes stress affects their health and production, so we work hard to keep things calm and predictable.”

Each cow wears an RFID tag that tracks production, behavior, and health in real time. Flow meters on the milking units monitor output, helping staff spot issues early and optimize performance.

Sustainable Farming

At Swisslane Farms, sustainability is baked into the growth strategy. A major initiative underway: a 3-million-gallon anaerobic digester in Battle Creek, built in partnership with Consumers Energy. Instead of releasing methane from open lagoons, the system captures and converts it—dramatically reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“The system captures methane from manure, purifies it, and feeds it into the natural gas pipeline,” Matt says. “It’s enough to power over 2,000 homes—and delivers both environmental impact and market value.”

More Than a Farm

Swisslane isn’t just a business—it’s home turf for nearly 60 family members living within five miles of the farm. The roots here run deep.

Dairy Discovery, a nonprofit launched in 2006, brings thousands through its barns each year for tours, camps, and hands-on lessons in how milk is produced.
“Our mission is education,” Matt says. “We want people to smell the farm, see the cows being milked, touch the calves—so they understand what modern agriculture really looks like.”

For Annie, it’s about narrowing the farm-to-table gap and fostering greater appreciation for the food on every plate.

“There are little miracles that happen here every day. It’s easy to overlook that when you walk into the grocery store—you take it for granted” says Annie.

That sense of purpose isn’t just for visitors—it’s shaping Swisslane’s next generation. Through a NextGen workforce program and regular family meetings, seven fifth-generation relatives are already on the payroll, gaining early exposure to how the business runs—and how they might lead it in the future.

“It’s been really fun to see the younger ones get excited about working on the farm,” Annie says. “We have some great kids ready to step up and continue the legacy.”

As Swisslane Farms marks over a century in business, its story is one of evolution with intention—rooted in family and driven by resilience. The next chapter isn’t just coming—it’s already in motion.

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This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Email fba@fbagr.org if you are interested in exploring feature opportunities.

Family Business Alliance strives to help family businesses with the tools, resources, and connections to help businesses succeed. Learn more about our resources including Leading Forward, Succeeding in Succession, and Navigating Governance that help to advance family business in our community.

The New Year is shaping up to be one of getting down to business fast, and alleviating worry, especially when it comes to tax and economic policies for family businesses in the Grand Rapids area.

Recently, I spoke with several of the staff members and leaders of the House Ways and Means Committee “Tax Teams.” I asked them what their first one hundred days looked like, specifically when it comes to tax legislation, an issue on every Grand Rapids family business leader’s mind.

I spoke with senior staff members (the people who do the nitty-gritty tax writing work) for Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fl), Chair of the “American Manufacturing” Tax Team, Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL), Chair of the “American Workforce” Tax Team, Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chair of the “Community Development” Tax Team, Rep. Adrian Smith (R-Neb), Chair of “Rural America” Tax Team, and Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), Chair of the “Main Street” Tax Team, among others.

Their messages, and priorities, were clear: “we need a tax code to help family businesses operate with certainty and permanency.”

This was good to hear, considering the specific issues that came up focused on items like lower personal taxes, the extension of the 199A, and restoring R&D expensing. All are on board, it seems now, with keeping these provisions. More importantly, they want to make them permanent.

Stability in the tax code is the most important factor they are weighing, but they also understand keenly that by extending much of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act (TCJA) the country runs the risk of increasing the national debt by over $4 trillion.

This is an unenviable balancing act we will be watching closely, to see how it will affect family businesses in Grand Rapids.

One key issue is education, that is, educating new and old Congress members on the importance of family businesses to the U.S. economy. This is what we do at Family Enterprise USA.

Another big challenge is that only a small number of the new Congress members were in office in 2017, when the TCJA was passed.

We need to educate these new members fast, not only on the helpful provisions in TCJA, but on the size and scope of family businesses in general.

If you don’t know, according to research, America’s multi-generational family-owned businesses contribute $7.7 trillion annually to the U.S. gross domestic product. Family businesses are the largest private employers in the country, accounting for 83.3 million jobs, or 59 percent of the country’s private workforce, the research shows.

In our first 100 days, this is the message we will get out, especially during the year’s first Congressional Family Business Caucus meeting to be held March 11, on Capitol Hill.

Getting The Word Out

At Family Enterprise USA, we’ve seen a year of significant gains in getting our messages out on Capitol Hill and letting our policy makers know about the importance of the economic engine that are family businesses in America, especially those family businesses in Grand Rapids.

The movement of economic and tax policies is often maddeningly slow and challenging in Washington, D.C. Educating our legislators on the importance of family businesses is a multi-year process spread across multiple administrations and political parties.

It takes time, and a lot of work.

Despite these barriers, we’ve seen significant progress and media attention to such important subjects as the continuation of favorable provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, restoring R&D expensing and bonus depreciation, and adding new members to the Congressional Family Business Caucus.

Our goals in 2024, as in previous years, were to educate our lawmakers on Capitol Hill on the many harmful proposals under consideration by Congress, by the old and new Administrations, and by our regulatory agencies.

Actions Speak Volumes

Our actions this year and next year will continue to hammer away on these issues. If we don’t, no one else will. We are your voice on Capitol Hill.

Here are just a few of the key issues we worked on this year and will continue to work on in 2025.

• Educate existing and new legislators on Capitol Hill on the size and power of America’s largest private employer, Family Business
• Use the Congressional Family Business Caucus as a platform for education, dialogue, and one-to-one meetings with key policy writers
• Get the message out encouraging Congress to extend, retain, and improve key portions of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act (TCJA)
• Promote the Restoration of the R&D Expensing, Bonus Depreciation, and Other Pro-Business Tax Policies
• Secure an Estate Tax Rate reduction and/or prevent a reduction in the Lifetime Exemption
• Avoid the Elimination of Step-Up in Basis
• Stop any movement to Eliminating Valuation Discounts or limitations on Valuation Rules for Estate Tax Purposes
• Curtail and lessen taxes on Passthrough Business Profits (199A)
• Prevent an increase in the Top Income Tax Rate
• Avoid an increase in the Top Capital Gains Tax Rate
• Implementation of a Surtax on Income, Mark-to-Market Regime, and/or Other Taxes on Successful Individuals and Wealth
• Stop Elimination or Limitations on Grantor Trusts and/or GRATS
• Prevent Limitations on Retirement Accounts and/or Elimination of Holding Private Stock in IRA’s
• Avoid elimination of Like Kind Exchanges
• Work with Congress to introduce and add co-sponsors for the Estate Tax Rate Reduction Act
• Support the work of the Family Business Estate Tax Coalition and the estate tax repeal bill
• Grow the Congressional Family Business Caucus and continue to work with Congress to hold 3 meetings a year.

We look forward to reporting back to you on our progress throughout 2025. It should be an interesting year for family businesses in Grand Rapids, and for all family businesses in America. 

Pat Soldano, President of Family Enterprise USA, and the Policy Taxation Group, both are non-partisan organizations advocating for family enterprises of all sizes. Both groups are organizers of the Congressional Family Business Caucus and of the Family Enterprise USA Annual Family Business Survey.

Family Business Alliance strives to help family businesses with the tools, resources, and connections to help businesses succeed. Learn more about our resources including Leading Forward, Succeeding in Succession, and Navigating Governance that help to advance family business in our community.

Family Business Alliance is proud to announce that Mary Cline has been promoted to Director of Membership.   

Mary joined Family Business Alliance in March 2023.  Since then, she has expanded connections and educational opportunities of family run organizations in West Michigan.  Through her leadership and advocacy, she has played a pivotal role in increasing membership and driving current membership engagement in programs and resources.  

“Mary is a true advocate for family run organizations in our community,” stated Robin Burns, Director of Family Business Alliance.  “Her passionate belief in our mission, continues to create an impact in our community.  As a member of our team, she has engaged over 50 new members and maintained a member retention rate of 90%,” Burns continued. 

As Director, Mary will continue to oversee and develop membership growth, engage the current membership in programs and resources, and develop strategic partnerships within the community.  

Prior to joining Family Business Alliance, Mary’s professional experience included relationship development positions with Samaritas and the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.  She currently serves on the Fund Development Committee for Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent County. 

Family Business Alliance strives to help family businesses with the tools, resources, and connections to help businesses succeed. Learn more about our resources including Leading Forward, Succeeding in Succession, and Navigating Governance that help to advance family business in our community.

Founded in 1894, Eikenhout Inc. navigated over a century of industry changes, growing from a small roofing supply store into Michigan’s last independent distributor of exterior building materials. Through the voices of three family members; Greg Schierbeek (President and CEO), Leah Weesies (Marketing Coordinator), and Alex Schierbeek (Director of Finance)—we get to look into the heart of this multigenerational business.

From Hot Tar to Building Supplies

Eikenhout’s roots trace back to Hendrik Eikenhout, a hot tar roofer in Grand Rapids who started selling roofing supplies and tools to other roofers. The company quickly evolved under the leadership of Hendrik’s son, John, who shifted focus from installation to distribution.

“Did you know that the asphalt roofing shingle was first made in Grand Rapids?” asked Greg Schierbeek, current president and second-generation family leader. The Eikenhout family began selling these products and moved the company to its long-standing location in the heart of Grand Rapids on Wealthy Street, eventually expanding the site across the street as well.

The family’s legacy of leadership extended through John’s widow, Nelly, who took over after his death in 1940. She managed the company for over a decade before selling shares to Walt Kok and Pete Albers, longtime employees who brought stability during a transformative period. Greg’s own father, Henry Schierbeek, joined the company in 1959 as an office clerk and eventually was part of a group of local businessmen that purchased it in 1971.

Adapting to a Changing Landscape

While Eikenhout doesn’t manufacture products, their ability to quickly adapt to market trends sets them apart. “We’ve been quicker to embrace innovations in exterior cladding and decking products than our competitors,” Greg said. During the pandemic, for example, the surge in demand for outdoor living spaces bolstered their decking business—a trend that has continued post-pandemic.

As the only remaining Michigan-owned distributor of its kind, Eikenhout stands apart in an industry dominated by national chains and private equity. Their independence allows them to remain deeply connected to their customers and communities. Leah emphasized, “We’re able to do more for our customers—whether it’s hosting events, handing out swag, or investing in local projects.”

Growing Up Eikenhout

For the Schierbeek family, Eikenhout has always been a part of their lives. All three have memories of growing up around the business, performing odd jobs long before stepping into full-time roles.  “My dad brought me here on Saturdays when I was 12 to make sure the coffee pot was full, sweep floors, and clean toilets,” Greg recounted with a smile. “I’ve been here full-time since 1980.”

Leah remembers they were too young to use power tools, “so we used hand clippers to weed whip,” she said. “My cousins and I would end up painting the warehouse—and sometimes each other.”

Alex, who now helps oversee the company’s finances, also started on the ground level of operations. “In high-school and college, I weeded, swept warehouses, and eventually drove trucks during the summers” he said. Leah joined full-time during the pandemic in 2020 after a career in commercial banking. Her brother, Jackson, recently stepped in as an estimator, continuing the family’s involvement.

Pride in Family and Reputation

When asked what they’re most proud of, the Schierbeeks pointed to the lasting legacy of the business and its impact on the community. “I love seeing our trucks out on the road and hearing from friends who spot them all over the state,” Leah said. For Alex, it’s the stories from longtime customers. “They often share memories about my grandpa or Greg, and it’s always positive. It makes me feel good about who I work for.”
Greg highlighted the relationships he’s built over decades. “I’ve been fortunate to work with my father and now with Leah, Alex, and Jackson. We’ve had phenomenal employees, we had a purchasing agent retire two weeks ago who had been here for 36 years. That’s something I’m incredibly grateful for.”

Family Values at the Core

The familial atmosphere extends beyond the Schierbeek family to the broader company culture. “We’re a close family, and that translates into the office,” Alex said. “Customers know they can walk down the hallway and talk to Greg directly. It’s not like calling a corporate hotline.” With 10 locations, 186 employees, and a six-acre compound in Grand Rapids, Eikenhout Inc. has grown significantly over the years, with Leah describing it as “a decent-sized company that still feels like a family.”
Greg, reflecting on the business’s longevity, credited the foundational values instilled by his predecessors. “My father never officially retired, and his presence shaped how we operate.”
Leah added, “When I started just four years ago, he was 87, and he was here almost every day. He’d come in just to have a cup of coffee, walk around, call his friends, and make a tee time—that’s what he did forever.”
Greg reflected on the legacy that his father left behind, saying, “We have that legacy where so many people knew him. And, you know, we’ve always just really tried to treat people fairly.”

Part of that commitment to treating people fairly extends to the company’s extensive healthcare program. “We’ve got 150 employees on our healthcare program, and probably 350 people total when you factor in their families,” Greg said. “It’s a big expense, and it gets tougher every year, but you’ve got to have it. You’ve got to take care of your people.” The program may get more challenging to manage, but Greg remains firm in his belief: “Just be good people.”

Community involvement is another cornerstone of Eikenhout’s philosophy. The company sponsors local Little League and high school teams, as well as food banks across Michigan, a practice they affectionately call ‘Eikenhelp.’ Greg shared, “We actively support charities that our employees are involved in, whether it’s donating uniforms or materials to rebuild a dugout.”

Looking Ahead

Eikenhout is positioned for continued growth with plans to open additional locations in Michigan over the next decade while maintaining its core values of promoting from within and supporting the local community. For the Schierbeek family, Eikenhout is not just a legacy; it’s a way of life. Through generations of leadership, they’ve proven that a family-owned business can thrive in a competitive landscape by staying true to its values and embracing change. As the company heads into its next chapter, it does so with the strength of its history and the promise of a bright future.

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This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Email fba@fbagr.org if you are interested in exploring feature opportunities.

Family Business Alliance strives to help family businesses with the tools, resources, and connections to help businesses succeed. Learn more about our resources including Leading Forward, Succeeding in Succession, and Navigating Governance that help to advance family business in our community.

Family Business Alliance is pleased to announce the election of the following board members to the Executive Committee.   As of January 2025, they will serve on the organization’s Executive Committee for a one-year term with the option to renew.

Randy Boss, Chair

Certified Risk Manager and Insurance Advisor, Ottawa Kent Insurance Agency Co-founder of Emerge Apps

A member of FBA since 2011, Randy has served organizations throughout Michigan for over 40 years as a certified risk manager and insurance advisor.  In 2015, he co-founded Emerge Apps with his son.  In addition to serving on the FBA Board and Membership Committee, Randy also founded and chaired Employers for Better Health, whose mission is to improve the health and safety of community members by increasing awareness and reducing risk for West Michigan Employers.  He also served as a Board Member, Chair of the Safety Committee, and Certified ABC Safety Academy Instructor for Associated Builders and Contractors of West Michigan

 

Michelle Timmerman, Vice Chair

Vice President and General Manager, Direct Supply, Inc.

A member of FBA since 2017, Direct Supply is a wholesale distributor of interior construction materials and is a certified woman owned organization. A second-generation family business leader, Michelle’s history in the company, business management experience, and love for design drive her passion for the business. Direct Supply Inc. supplies manufacturers, fabricators, retailers, and builders with raw materials and components that go into finished goods, such as furniture, casework, countertops, and cabinetry.

 

Dave Straw, Secretary

Former Chief Operations Officer, Skytron

An FBA member since 2011, Dave has provided leadership and assistance to private and non-profit organizations throughout West Michigan.   During his career, he has directed plant expansions, adopted new manufacturing technologies, created training and development programs for employees, and developed effective cross functional teams to grow and scale businesses.  He has also served at several family run organizations in key executive roles, assisting them in the transition from one generation to the next.  In addition to serving as an FBA Board Member and Peer Group Moderator, Dave also serves as a Board Member of Koeze and American Red Cross of West Michigan.

 

Todd Van Haren, Partner at SecurAlarm, LLC, was re-elected to continue to serve as Treasurer. Amanda VanFossen will now serve as Immediate Past Chair through 2025.

With 185 members, Family Business Alliance is a unique member-driven business association in West Michigan that stands out for its commitment to family business leadership and family ownership.  FBA serves to create a connected community of thriving family businesses, fosters peer learning, and authentic relationships.