Haviland Celebrates 90 Years

Haviland Enterprises Inc. is commemorating its 90th anniversary as a supplier of chemicals for cleaning, water treatment, plating and recreational water solutions. Since its founding in 1934 by chemist J.B. Haviland, the company has evolved from a modest laboratory in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to a globally recognized chemical manufacturer with facilities across the U.S.

Haviland delivers chemical solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of its customers. “Our drive to exceed expectations is fueled by our commitment to our customers and our community,” says Meg Post, Haviland Enterprises Inc. president and CEO. “As a 100% employee-owned company, our employees are deeply invested in ensuring the highest level of service and product excellence. We are excited to continue delivering value that not only meets but anticipates the needs of our customers.”

Post attributes Haviland’s success to its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), which was initiated by the Haviland family in 1997. The company first transitioned to a partial ESOP with 54% ownership retained by the Haviland family and 46% by employees. In 2012, the family transferred its remaining shares to the ESOP, making Haviland fully employee owned. “The ESOP empowers our workforce, encouraging a culture of ownership and continuous improvement at all levels of the organization,” Post adds.

Coinciding with its anniversary milestone, Haviland is constructing a $7 million flagship laboratory, envisioned as a hub for product development and innovation.

“As we look to the future, our mission remains the same. Haviland will continue to create chemical solutions that solve our customers’ challenges,” says Post. “Providing solutions and building partnerships is in our DNA, and I’m looking forward to leveraging this expertise in emerging and established markets.”