Croix Valley Foods of Hudson, Winsert of Marinette and Graftobian Makeup Company of Madison are the winners of the 2022 Governor’s Export Achievement Awards for their successes in global business development.
The awards honor businesses that have achieved significant growth or implemented innovative strategies in exporting. Nominees were evaluated on measurable export growth, innovation to enter or grow international markets, contributions to the state’s overall economy, and trade development.
“Exports play a critical role in our state’s economic success, and promoting Wisconsin’s quality products, industries, and resources continues to be such an important part of our work to expand export opportunities and build a strong, resilient economy,” says Gov. Tony Evers. “The folks we’re recognizing with these awards have proven themselves as innovative business leaders in our state whose efforts have helped ensure Wisconsin remains a prominent global trade partner with countries worldwide.”
Croix Valley Foods got the award designated for a company in the ag sector.
Founded in 2009 by husband and wife Damon and Lu Holter, Croix Valley Foods only began exporting in 2018; however, since then export revenue has more than doubled each year and is projected to do so again in 2022. In addition, the company’s export-derived revenue has grown from 5 percent of total revenue in 2018 to 22 percent so far this year. Croix Valley Food’s initial product line consisted of three sauces and has since grown to 44 products, including sauces, dry rubs, seasonings, and Bloody Mary flavor enhancers that are currently being sold to nine countries.
“We are very proud of our business and are very thankful to be a part of a community and state that is so driven to help direct and guide businesses to success in exporting,” says co-owner Lu Holter. “The global community we have encountered that have embraced our company and our products is phenomenal and pales only in comparison with the fantastic exporting experts in Wisconsin. We are proud to be a small business in this state and are excited to bring Wisconsin to every corner of the world – one bottle of sauce at a time.”
Many of the winners and semi-finalists have used programs from WEDC to develop an export strategy and increase their overseas sales. Several are graduates of ExporTech, an export acceleration program developed in partnership by WEDC, the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and the UW-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center. Several have taken part in WEDC trade ventures and missions and have received grants for their exporting initiatives. Learn more about WEDC’s exporting programs: inwisconsin.com/export
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