Marlin Steel Wire Products acquires Franklin Display Group

Marlin Steel Wire Products has acquired Franklin Display Group, adding the Belvidere, Illinois, display manufacturer to the Marlin and Madsen family of companies. The deal expands Marlin’s U.S. manufacturing footprint, display capabilities and customer reach while keeping Franklin’s leadership in place.

Why it matters: - The acquisition adds Franklin Display Group’s tube, wire and sheet metal display expertise to Marlin Steel Wire Products’ broader manufacturing platform. - The combined company says the move creates more resources, more market access and more support for reinvestment in U.S. manufacturing. - Franklin’s safety record and production depth strengthen the capabilities available to Marlin customers.

What happened: - Marlin Steel Wire Products acquired Franklin Display Group, and Franklin officially joined the Marlin and Madsen family of companies. - Franklin Display Group was founded in 1978 in Belvidere, Illinois. - Franklin serves brands across retail, including national beverage companies and golf equipment brands. - Bob Berleth will stay on as president and continue leading Franklin’s team. - Don Mutert Jr. is retiring after 43 years with the business.

The details: - Franklin operates two facilities in Belvidere that sit about a mile apart. - The company employs 100 people and has more than 210,000 square feet of manufacturing space. - Franklin’s equipment includes three flat lasers, a CNC tube laser, tube bending, a powder coating line and Schlatter mesh welders. - Franklin offers planning and design, engineering and prototyping, manufacturing, materials and finishing, assembly and logistics. - The company has gone more than 600 consecutive days without a lost-time safety incident. - Marlin said Franklin’s display expertise and the wider company network create new possibilities for customers. - Marlin said every product it builds is made in the USA. - More information is available on Marlin Steel Wire Products’ website. - The company also shared its LinkedIn page and YouTube channel.

Between the lines: - The acquisition appears aimed at widening Marlin’s product mix and strengthening its position in retail display manufacturing. - Keeping Bob Berleth in place suggests continuity for Franklin customers and employees during the transition. - The emphasis on safety, craftsmanship and U.S.-based production signals that Marlin wants to preserve Franklin’s identity while integrating the business.

What's next: - Marlin and Franklin will integrate capabilities and customer relationships under the expanded company structure. - The combined organization is expected to pursue new opportunities with existing and new customers across retail and industrial markets. - Don Mutert Jr.’s retirement and Berleth’s continued leadership point to a transition period focused on stability and continuity.