BRANDT TOUR
I’m taking the initiative to further understand businesses in the 95th District. The mission of “Mike on Main Street” business tours is to hear directly from business owners and workers so I can better serve their needs to improve the business climate in Illinois.
BRANDT Global Headquarters is located in Springfield, Illinois. The company’s straightforward approach to doing business worked in 1953 when Glen Brandt and his sister, Evelyn Brandt Thomas, founded the company, and it works today. Their belief in innovation, honesty and first-class customer service was a help to local farmers, many of whom were their neighbors, in their hometown of Pleasant Plains, Illinois. The Brandt family and their employees have remained true to a philosophy planted deep in the company’s midwestern roots and forged by an American spirit that focuses on a commitment to quality people and quality products. Aggressive expansion of the business through acquisitions and the development of new products remain vital to the long-term strategy for growth and profitability.
BRANDT doesn’t just operate in Illinois, products are proudly distributed in 48 states and over 45 countries.
I had the pleasure to meet with Evelyn Brandt and Rod Riech today to discuss the operations within BRANDT, the history of how the family-owned business expanded nationwide, and some of the challenges they are faced with. Rod provided great insight into their priorities, and how they have helped shape the agriculture industry in Illinois. The two main challenges they face are regulations on pesticides and having a more business-friendly climate in Illinois. All the business owners I talk to express their concerns over rising property taxes, regulations, and opportunity to expand. Illinois must do better to help businesses remain open and offer tax relief they deserve.
Thank you Rod for taking the time to meet with me today!
To learn more about BRANDT, visit their website.
Photos
“Mike on Main Street” Coffey Tours O’Shea Builders in Springfield
I met with Mike O’Shea from O’Shea Builders in Springfield to learn more about the business operations. During the tour, we discussed the significant impact of public policy and how it effects business costs, insurance rates, employees, and opportunities. Read more…
Mike on Main Street Business Tour Referrals
If you know a local business that would like to have Rep. Coffey tour their facility and discuss the impact of state legislature, let his office know by completing this form.