Summerfest Business Alliance Member Spotlight
1.) Tell Us Your Story!
Basic Metals is a family-owned and operated independent metals service center headquartered in Germantown, Wisconsin, best known for our specialties of aluminum and stainless sheet and coil. Our mission is simple: we offer a concierge experience to our customers and are personally invested in their success by being a partner in their supply chain. Our history is one filled with family and grit. In 1980, Don Fogel was hired as the very first employee of Basic Metals. Soon after, Don’s son, Todd, joined the team. They hustled to get the business of the ground transitioning between suits and shop overalls. In 1985, they purchased the assets of Basic Metals to become the sole owners and rapid growth took place. Today, Basic Metals is thriving under the leadership of Todd’s son, Andy. Basic Metals has been continuing to grow, expanding to locations in Arizona, Mississippi and Mexico.
2.) Tell us about your organization’s accomplishments and what you’re most proud of as an employer in Wisconsin.
Since our inception we have grown substantially, and last year we were awarded the BizTimes “Future 50” award for being one of that fastest growing privately owned businesses in Wisconsin. We are proud of our growth and are fortunate to play a pivotal role in supporting the supply chain of some of Wisconsin’s largest manufacturing companies.
3.) How Do You Impact Your Community?
We value causes that our employees are actively engaged in, and we make it a priority to support organizations that make an impact in their lives. For example, we continually support youth sports, school fundraisers, scholarship programs, American Cancer Society, Kidney Foundation, Milwaukee Panther Athletics, and many more. It’s important that we invest our time and resources in areas that align with the passions of our staff as it not only helps our community but also demonstrates that we care about the people we work with.
4.) Adapting to change. - What are some ways in which your business has had to adapt and pivot, and how has that led to success?
Like many industries, the metals industry has faced many supply chain challenges over the past several years. We quickly and clearly communicate any potential supply chain disruptions to our customers and work diligently to find a solution. Our company's biggest challenges to growth include fluctuating material costs and supply chain disruptions. Simply put, if we don't have metal to supply at a competitive price, we cannot grow our business. Our strong relationships with our customers, suppliers, and employees have enabled us to stay competitive during these uncertain times.
5) Why is it important to your organization to Support Summerfest?
Summerfest is iconic to Milwaukee and a highlight of the summer season. It’s important for us to support an organization that is such a valuable member of the community and local economy, while also providing a fun experience to our constituents. We love using our tickets to recognize our customers, vendors, and employees, and many look forward to receiving Summerfest tickets year after year!