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The Evolution of Employee Engagement at Friesens Corporation
Navigating the complexities of employee engagement is essential across various industries, especially in an era where technology may inhibit face-to-face interactions. Founded in 1907, Friesens Corporation, a Canada-based book manufacturer, utilizes an employee-ownership model that fosters an ownership and customer-centric mindset among its workforce, according to Ryan Hildebrand, the firm’s senior VP of books. This philosophy is deeply rooted in the company’s culture.
“A phrase from our founder remains a cornerstone of our operations: ‘We will be successful if our customers are successful,’” Hildebrand notes. “This mantra continues to resonate with us more than a century later.”
Friesens specializes in the production of both paperbacks and hardcovers, which includes a variety of offerings ranging from one-color trade books to high-end color publications catering to art, museum, and photography sectors, as well as short-run books utilizing digital print technology. The company is equipped to manage the entire book life cycle, processing orders that can range from a few hundred to hundreds of thousands of copies, along with offering a diverse array of binding options.
In the last five years, Friesens has invested over $50 million into automation, capacity enhancement, and reducing turnaround times, alongside acquiring advanced digital printing technology. Moreover, they’ve integrated online tools that empower customers to oversee their projects. The incorporation of artificial intelligence plays a key role in data analysis and refining production workflows, demonstrating the company’s commitment to innovation.
These financial investments align with Friesens’ goal to support publishers in meeting the pressing demand for swift and economical book market entries. “Publishers are seeking ways to decrease inventory levels and reduce lead times to cut costs and minimize returns while ensuring rapid delivery to consumers,” explains Hildebrand. “In today’s fast-paced environment, the ability to respond quickly is crucial.”
The dedicated employee-owners at Friesens take great pride in managing intricate projects, particularly those involving premier color books, which necessitate meticulous attention to detail as well as an expertise in color and finishing techniques. Advanced printing technologies, including LED printing, enable the company to work with unique paper types and produce high-quality outcomes. Additionally, they can create specialty book boxes and slipcases tailored for specific projects.
According to Hildebrand, the employee-ownership structure significantly differentiates Friesens from many competitors. “We prioritize our people and make decisions that often diverge from typical corporate strategies,” he remarks. “Where other companies may emphasize immediate financial results, we focus on the needs of our customers and employees, making decisions that foster long-term benefits.”
This ownership spirit extends beyond the workplace, positively influencing the broader community in Altona, Manitoba, and the literary landscape as a whole. Friesens supports local sports teams and literacy initiatives for children, and dedicates resources to organizations that promote the arts and storytelling.
Friesens’ commitment to community engagement also manifests in their environmental stewardship, a practice that dates back to the 1970s. The company became the first printer of the Harry Potter series using 100% post-consumer waste paper and was the first in Canada to earn Forest Stewardship Council certification.
“Being situated in a small community has always made us mindful of our impact and the importance of sustainable practices, such as recycling and waste reduction. Our goal has always been to preserve the environment in which our employees and community members live,” Hildebrand emphasizes. “This commitment to sustainability has become ingrained in our organizational values.”
A version of this article appeared in the 02/24/2025 issue of Publishers Weekly under the headline: The New Face of Book Manufacturing: Friesens Corporation.
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