ADA Enterprises proves small-town manufacturing works
Manufacturing success is still possible in small-town America. Case in point: ADA Enterprises in Northwood, IA.
"It doesn’t cost a lot to get work done here because people have a good work ethic, and the cost of living is low for people living here," says Tom Stensrud, President and CEO of ADA Enterprises. “This town and county are very supportive of their manufacturing base.”
Those words capture the essence of why Stensrud’s company and others in Winnebago and Worth counties are showing they can compete and thrive on a global scale. Winn‑Worth Betco is proud to support businesses like ADA that drive economic growth in the region.
Humble beginnings lead to global markets
Founded in 1974 by Allan and JoAnn Stensrud, ADA Enterprises began in a basement selling pig flooring. The business grew steadily until the 1980 farm crisis hit, forcing the company to dramatically shrink and spend 10 to 15 years digging out of the hole.
In the early 1990s, the company centralized all operations into a single facility in Northwood, strategically located within its customer base, which extended mostly throughout Illinois and Iowa. The mid‑90s saw an expansion into commercial furniture through the acquisition of Premier Polysteel, a small playground and furniture company, which was critical to ADA’s global reach. Today, the company produces a wide range of products, including agricultural flooring systems, veterinary animal flooring, and commercial-grade outdoor furniture.
“We sell our commercial outdoor furniture all over the world, and are knocking on the doors of some big players,” Stensrud said.
What is the key to ADA Enterprises’ success?
People are the priority at ADA. Profit sharing, transparency, and team events turn employees into invested partners.
“We have the best people,” said Stensrud. “We pay a competitive wage, but the truth is, there’s always the possibility some will out-pay us, so we try to out-love everybody. We really like the people that work here, and we make sure they like it here too.”
The company also embraces technology, including automation and AI, to enhance productivity without replacing human workers.
“We’re in a really cool place with AI, making our folks more valuable,” Stensrud said. “Innovation and workforce development go hand in hand for us.”
Why do Winnebago/Worth counties work for manufacturers?
Stensrud credits part of ADA’s success to its Midwest location and supportive community. Residents, schools, and organizations create an environment that fosters growth.
“Everybody’s looking out for everybody. We’re in a small town, and it acts like one,” Stensrud said. “This sense of collaboration, combined with a skilled workforce, makes the region an ideal home for manufacturing businesses.”
Model for development
ADA Enterprises just completed a 50,000-square-foot addition to its Northwood campus, increasing production capacity, improving efficiency, and adding indoor storage. The expansion reflects the company’s long-term vision to grow steadily while investing in people and technology.
“We’re growing anywhere from 10% to 30% a year, and we have four more additions planned if we can maintain that growth,” said Stensrud.
ADA Enterprises’ success highlights the opportunities in Winnebago and Worth Counties for businesses to thrive and expand. The local spirit of support is precisely what drives manufacturing investment and job creation across the region.
Interested in growing your manufacturing business in Winnebago or Worth County? Contact Winn-Worth Betco today to learn how our team can help your company thrive!
