Insight associate editor Kate Bruns sums it up best when she writes in this month’s cover story that “the artistry of beer is about more than just the brew.”
While our cover story isn’t exactly about beer per se, it is beer adjacent in that it focuses on the works of art hidden in plain sight behind every bar rail in the state — beer tap handles.
If you are like me, you might be surprised to learn that the New North is home to America’s largest manufacturer of beer tap handles. Each year Hankscraft AJS Tap Handles in Random Lake produces about 500,000 tap handles that help customers quickly identify their favorite brew or entice them to try a new one. Tap handles serve multiple functions, from helping brewers differentiate themselves from competitors to improving the ease of use for bartenders pouring beer.
It’s serious work at Hankscraft AJS. Learn more about the company and its role in the industry on page 22.
Since Insight Publications was acquired by Woodward Communications, Inc. in 2022, we’ve been tapping into ways to partner with our new sister company Woodward Community Media, which operates six radio stations across Oshkosh, Appleton and Green Bay. From collaborating on the NEW Manufacturing Insights podcast to regular segments on Focus Fox Valley with Hayley Tenpas, the partnership between Insight and our radio colleagues is growing deeper and more meaningful each day. I think I speak for the entire Insight team when I say we have gained new appreciation for the hard work it takes to be successful in the competitive radio industry.
These new insights into the industry led to this month’s Insider feature written by contributor Nikki Kallio, who sat down with leaders from the region to learn more about how the industry is being impacted by streaming platforms, artificial intelligence and even changes in car manufacturing. Turn to page 30 to read more.
Our Insight team is also preparing for the second annual 40 Under 40 awards event later this month. In April we hosted the 40 Under 40 photo shoot at InitiativeOne in Green Bay (only a week later than planned after the lovely April snowstorm we received caused us to reschedule). We gathered with the young professionals being recognized at this year’s awards event to take their photos for the June issue of the magazine and get a chance to know them more.
The energy within this group was palpable. From engineers to HR pros, this year’s 40 Under 40 class is making waves in various industries across our region. I can’t wait for you to meet them at the awards event May 29. I think you will be just as impressed as I was. Registration closes May 18, so make sure to snag your seat today at insightonbusiness.com/40U40.
See you there,
Amelia Compton Wolff
