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Caterpillar negotiations to resume
May 21, 2013 11:00 AM
Caterpillar Inc. and the United Steelworkers Local 1343 will resume labor negotiations for its South Milwaukee plant on Thursday morning.

The agreement to meet has been posted on the company's negotiations website.

The union, which represents about 800 workers at the South Milwaukee facility, voted to reject a six-year labor proposal from the company on April 30. The proposed contract would have frozen wages for its duration and eliminated some seniority protections during temporary layoffs.

Negotiations stalled on May 8 when the union's proposed counter offers did not gain any traction and no further meetings were scheduled.

Ross Winklbauer, United Steelworkers District 4 director, called the company and asked to meet again this week.

"We had met like a week after the vote last time and obviously whether they'll admit it or not I think they were rather upset that the vote did not go through," Winklbauer said. "The talks broke off so me and the committee decided that we would wait a little bit, which we did."

Nothing significant has changed, but the union will make some modifications to its proposals to work toward a contract, he said.

"Our job is to get the best we can get for our membership," Winklbauer said. "Our membership asked us to go back by their vote, which we did, and now we're doing what we can do to get changes that our members will find acceptable and get a contract here."

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Wisconsin companies receive national honors for exports
May 21, 2013 11:00 AM
U.S. Acting Secretary of Commerce Rebecca Blank today honored 57 U.S. companies and organizations, including M.E Dey & Co. Inc. of Milwaukee and Hurd Windows and Doors of Medford, that export goods or services at the 2013 President’s “E” Awards ceremony.
 
 
This year marks the 51st anniversary of the “E” Awards, which recognize significant contributions to increasing American exports.

M.E. Dey was among companies receiving the “E” Award for Export Service. Hurd received the “E” Award for Exports.

“E” Award recipients contribute to President Barack Obama’s National Export Initiative (NEI), which aims to double U.S. exports by the end of 2014 in order to support American jobs. Since the launch of the NEI in January 2010, the Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration, through its U.S. Commercial Service, has assisted more than 16,000 U.S. companies record an export success, supporting more than $164 billion in U.S. exports.

The President’s “E” Award was created by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, and more than 2,500 firms have been recognized through the “E” Awards since the program’s inception.

“These companies truly represent the spirit of American business and entrepreneurship – bringing some of the best and most innovative products and services to the global marketplace with the sought after ‘Made in the USA’ label,” Blank said. “Exports continue to be the engine of our economy, supporting nearly 10 million good, high-wage jobs in cities and communities across the country. Furthermore, the success of these exporters reflects historic progress in U.S. export growth. In 2012, U.S. exports hit an all-time high of $2.2 trillion, with record levels of sales to more than 70 trading partners, including major emerging markets and 11 free trade agreement (FTA) partners.” 

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Rexnord caps robust quarter
May 21, 2013 11:00 AM
Milwaukee-based Rexnord Corp. today reported fiscal fourth quarter net income of $23.9 million, or 24 cents per share, up from $8.6 million, or 12 cents per share, in the same period a year ago.
 
The company’s quarterly net sales increased to $540.3 million from $540.1 million a year earlier.

Todd Adams, president and chief executive officer of Rexnord, said, "We're pleased with our fourth quarter results which reflect our continued ability to outperform our competition and the underlying market growth in our served markets. Core sales growth was +1 percent in the quarter and our adjusted EBITDA margin and free cash flow were both fourth quarter records of 21.3 percent and $77 million, respectively, while delivering adjusted EPS of $0.32. In our Process & Motion Control platform, we are seeing progression and stability in many of our end markets. For the year, we delivered a record adjusted EBITDA margin of 24.9 percent despite a -1 percent core (-3 percent reported) sales decline. Looking ahead, we are increasingly confident in our ability to drive long-term growth and continued strong operating performance within the platform based on the investments and progress we have made over the course of the past year around innovation, globalization and operational excellence driven through the Rexnord Business System.”

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Lands’ End celebrates 50 years
May 21, 2013 12:00 PM
Dodgeville-based Lands' End today is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its founding.
 
Lands' End got its start in 1963 as a sailing outfitter in Chicago, operating as a mail-order operation filling 15 orders on a good day.

The company immediately set itself apart in the industry when founder Gary Comer instituted the now-famous unconditional return policy: "If you're not satisfied with any item, simply return it to us at any time for an exchange or refund of its purchase price. Guaranteed. Period.”

Since then, Lands' End has been known for its world-class customer service. Its Dodgeville headquarters span more than 1.7 million square feet.

Edgar Huber, current chief executive and president of Lands' End is leading the brand through the half-century milestone with a focus on moving the brand forward while staying true to the company’s core values and roots.

"We are extremely proud of our heritage and are looking forward to giving our customers exceptional quality and value for the next fifty years," said Huber.

Earlier this month, Lands' End partnered with the National Forest Foundation to plant 50 trees on the Dodgeville campus in honor of the company's milestone. This year Lands' End also donated $50,000 to the organization, which funded the planting of roughly 385,000 trees, in an effort to make a larger impact on the environment. 

Lands' End is a member of Sears Holdings Corp.

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Kohl’s donates $1.5 million to Children’s Hospital
May 21, 2013 12:00 PM
Kohl's Department Stores today announced a $1.5 million donation to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin from Kohl's Cares, the company's philanthropic platform, to fund the Kohl's Cares Grow Safe & Healthy program.
 
The program is designed to make Wisconsin kids and families aware of safety risks in and out of their homes, and the necessary steps to help avoid injury. The gift represents the largest corporate donation to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin this year. 

Injury is the leading cause of death for children ages one to 14 in the United States and in Wisconsin.

Children's Hospital of Wisconsin is launching the Kohl's Cares Grow Safe & Healthy program, which features several interactive kiosks along with mobile and digital extensions that aim to teach children and families about injury prevention.

"Kohl's is proud to continue our partnership with Children's Hospital of Wisconsin," said Kevin Mansell, Kohl's chairman, president and chief executive officer. "Together, we are working to educate Wisconsin children and families about injury prevention to create a safer, healthier community."

"With Kohl's generous $1.5 million donation, we are honored to continue our long-standing partnership and joint commitment to the Milwaukee community," said Bridget Clementi, director of community health, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. "Our work together allows us to develop fun and educational programs for the kids and families in our area." 

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SBA Wisconsin to honor local partners
May 21, 2013 12:00 PM
The Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC) of Milwaukee and the Wisconsin Business Development Finance Corporation (WBD) of Monona will receive national awards from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the SBA’s Wisconsin District Office announced.
 
Both will be honored at an awards breakfast in Milwaukee on May 31 and during June National Small Business Week ceremonies in Washington, D.C.

“We are extremely proud of these winners.  Wendy Baumann and Joseph Wolfe represent the best in their field. They and their organizations are truly deserving of this national recognition,” said SBA regional administrator Marianne Markowitz. “They are a shining example of how our resource partners excel in building communities and empowering entrepreneurs.”

WWBIC will receive the national Women’s Business Center Service Excellence Award.  Beginning in late 2011, WWBIC piloted a highly successful Job Corps youth entrepreneurship program which has become a national model.

WBD will receive the award for large CDCs (Certified Development Companies) over $50 million. In fiscal year 2012, WBD, working with 114 Wisconsin financial institutions, obtained 302 loan approvals totaling more than $228 million, making it third in the country.

Dan Schneider, WBD’s executive vice president, will also be recognized as SBA Wisconsin’s 2013 Financial Services Champion.

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BizTimes Morning Headlines: Some food stamp recipients would have to work under Walker's plan
May 21, 2013 12:15 PM
An estimated 63,000 able-bodied adults without dependents would have to work or participate in training at least 20 hours a week to get full food stamps benefits under a proposal by Gov. Scott Walker to be debated today by the Legislature's budget committee.
 
About 50 percent of such recipients likely would drop out of the food stamp program, called FoodShare in Wisconsin, if the requirement were enacted, the Legislative Fiscal Bureau estimates.

For more, read today’s BizTimes Morning Headlines.

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BizTimes Money Weekly: Waukesha State Bank to open New Berlin branch
May 21, 2013 12:00 PM
Waukesha State Bank will host a grand opening for its New Berlin branch during the week of June 24. The 5,800-square-foot building was a Harris Bank when it closed in October 2012 and Waukesha State Bank purchased it from BMO Financial Group in December 2012.
 
The bank will offer retail banking, mortgages, investments, wealth management and trust, and commercial and small business lending. It also has a community room that will be available to nonprofits and civic groups in the area for free.

For more, read the BizTimes Money Weekly.
 

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SURG to open 8-Twelve at Bayshore
May 20, 2013 01:00 PM
SURG Restaurant Group plans to open a second 8-twelve MVP Bar and Grill restaurant, which would be located in space currently occupied by Coa at Bayshore Town Center in Glendale, SURG announced today.

The first 8-twelve restaurant opened last year on Bluemound Road in Brookfield. SURG opened the restaurant with Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Milwaukee Brewers leftfielder Ryan Braun. The restaurant name is based on their jersey numbers. The restaurant features a farm to table menu with Wisconsin produced food and a sportbar homage to Braun and Rodgers. The Brookfield 8-twelve restaurant was an immediate hit when it opened last year and SURG has been planning to add additional locations in the state.

"Having enthusiastic support from Omar (Shaikh), my partner, and that of Aaron and Ryan creates a strong force. As far as the location goes, I couldn't think of a better area than Bayshore Town Center," said Mike Polaski, owner and CEO of SURG Restaurant Group.

8-Twelve at Bayshore will feature the same commitment to Wisconsin that the SURG Restaurant Group delivers at all of its award-winning restaurants. Much of the produce, beef and pork will be sourced through Mike Polaski's owned and operated Hidden Creek Farm in New London, Wis. as well as other statewide farms.

"SURG Restaurant Group's success is built on great partnerships, whether it's Ryan Braun and Aaron Rodgers or 8-Twelve in a dynamic setting like Bayshore," said SURG co-owner and president Omar Shaikh. "Our menu will feature a variety of offerings for a range of customers, from those who enjoy a high-quality meal and dining experience to those who enjoy the experience of gathering with friends to watch their favorite team in action."

8-Twelve is a combined effort by Braun and Rodgers to give back to Wisconsin by showcasing and supporting Wisconsin food producers. Teaming up with the SURG Restaurant Group, 8-Twelve brings a farm-to-table concept featuring a wood-fired grill that imparts unique flavors to the chef's creations.

"We're thrilled to have 8-Twelve join our lineup of restaurant offerings," said David Moss, general manager at Bayshore Town Center. "Ryan Braun and Aaron Rodgers are at the top of their respective games, and having 8-twelve at Bayshore keeps us at the top of our game, which is providing our guests with a high-quality shopping, dining and entertainment experience."

8-Twelve will feature private dining rooms perfect for conducting business during the week and celebrating on weekends. Visitors can also enjoy a comfortable dining room or spacious bar area while watching Ryan Braun or Aaron Rodgers when they're in action on the field.

"We are very excited to be opening another 8-Twelve in a very special setting like Bayshore Town Center," Braun said." I am thrilled to be able to continue my involvement in the community and give back to the city that has been so supportive throughout my career."

"With the great success we've already had at our Brookfield location, Ryan and I are excited to bring the 8-Twelve brand to the North Shore," Rodgers said. "The new Bayshore location is as good as they come, and we're looking forward to providing the North Shore community with the unique, quality dining experience 8-Twelve fans have come to expect."

"8-Twelve represents everything that's great about Wisconsin, from its sports teams to the quality food sourced from local farms," said Moss. "It's one more example why Bayshore Town Center is the area's top shopping, dining and entertainment destination."

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BizTimes collects Awards for Excellence in Journalism
May 20, 2013 11:00 AM
BizTimes Media LLC received an unprecedented six Awards For Excellence in Journalism at the Milwaukee Press Club's Gridiron Dinner at the Intercontinental Hotel in downtown Milwaukee Friday night.

BizTimes executive editor Steve Jagler received a gold medal award for his analysis of Obamacare.

Reporter Molly Newman received a gold medal award for her feature story on Leinenkugel Brewing Co.

Silver awards went to managing editor Andrew Weiland for his beat coverage on real estate and to the BizTimes staff for best website design. Bronze awards were achieved by "Innovation" columnist Dan Steininger and designers Shelly Tabor and Picara Hay for best magazine design.

The Press Club's Sacred Cat Award was bestowed to ABC News reporter Cokie Roberts.

For a complete list of awards recipients, click here.

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Whole Foods plans to open new store in suburbs
May 20, 2013 11:00 AM
Whole Foods plans to open a second store in the Milwaukee area and is considering sites in Brookfield and Wauwatosa, according to commercial real estate sources.

Options include the Bluemound Road corridor and Chicago-based HSA Commercial Real Estate's Mayfair Collection development in Wauwatosa, sources say.

Whole Foods opened its first store in the area in 2006 at 2305 N. Prospect Ave. on Milwaukee's east side. After a slow start at that location, the store has performed better in recent years, grocery and real estate industry experts say.

"They're doing really well with the store that they have (on the east side)," said Pewaukee-based grocery industry consultant David Livingston. "The sales there have really gone up the last three to four years."

One source said HSA is trying to get Whole Foods to locate in the Mayfair Collection. A groundbreaking ceremony was held recently for the first phase of that development, which will be built at Highway 45 and Burleigh Road in Wauwatosa. In the project's first phase, HSA Commercial will demolish a portion of the warehouse buildings fronting Highway 45 to create approximately 270,000 square feet of retail space and a parking lot. Tenants in the first phase will include Nordstrom Rack, Dick's Sporting Goods and Ulta Beauty.

Representatives for HSA Commercial and Whole Foods could not be reached for comment.

Sources say Whole Foods plans to keep its east side location open after opening the suburban store.

The Milwaukee area could support an additional two to three Whole Foods stores, Livingston said. Affluent areas of the region, including the western suburbs or Mequon, could support a Whole Foods store, he said.

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BizTimes video features interview with Michael Cudahy
May 20, 2013 11:00 AM
Entrepreneur and philanthropist Michael Cudahy recounted his family's remarkable American journey in a wide-ranging interview by BizTimes executive editor Steve Jagler at the BizExpo Thursday.

For BizTimes readers who were not able to attend the luncheon, a digital video of the interview, in which Cudahy talked about his family's history, his entrepreneurial accomplishments and his philanthropic ventures, is posted here.

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BizTimes Morning Headlines: Presidential speculation about Walker heats up
May 20, 2013 11:00 AM
In just a few days, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker will head to the heart of Iowa — where the 2016 presidential race will likely begin — and take center stage before that key state’s Republican party faithful.
 
But Walker is downplaying the political significance of Thursday’s trip to the Des Moines area, where he will deliver the keynote speech at a fundraiser hosted by Iowa’s largest GOP committee, the Republican Party of Polk County.

Read more in today’s BizTimes Morning Headlines.
 

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BizTimes Manufacturing Weekly: IBS opens Waukesha office
May 20, 2013 11:00 AM
International Business Systems, a Swedish enterprise resource planning and supply chain software company, has opened an office in Waukesha.
 
The company provides manufacturers with distribution and warehouse process solutions. The company has 15 employees at the office and plans to hire eight more this year.

For more, read the BizTimes Manufacturing Weekly.
 
 

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Milwaukee Biz Blog: Will Obamacare or private sector reforms carry the day?
May 20, 2013 11:00 AM
A race, invisible to most, is on to solve the nation's health care crisis. It is a race between reforms of the delivery system in the private sector and the insurance-based reforms under Obamacare.

Which will provide better access, affordability and value? John Torinus breaks it down in today's Milwaukee Biz Blog.

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Current Issue
Cudahy receives Lifetime Achievement AwardMichael Cudahy receives BizTimes Lifetime Achievement Award
Aside from city founders Solomon Juneau, Byron Kilbourn and George Walker, few people, if any, have had more impact on Milwaukee than entrepreneur, community advocate and philanthropist Michael J. Cudahy.
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