As 2007 winds down, Morbark reflects on its half a century of manufacturing forestry and tree-care equipment. A year-long celebration of the company’s 50th anniversary commenced with public and private open houses that included food, drinks, and tours of the new office building that is a testament in itself to how far Morbark has come.
“We’ve experienced a lot of changes in the last 10 years, our company is much stronger today as a whole,” says Lon Morey, president and CEO of Morbark. “We focus on teaming and collaboration among employees and those who help us achieve our goals.”
Morbark began in a small blacksmith shop in the modest town of Winn, Mich. in 1957 when Norval “Nub” Morey and Robert Baker became partners in the invention and patenting of a “log debarking apparatus”. Over the years the company grew from building sawmill equipment to also manufacture forestry, tree care and wood-waste recycling equipment.
Other events in 2007 commemorating Morbark’s milestone included Demo Days, a unique event allowing customers an opportunity to interact with personnel, watch equipment demos and tour the factory; a lively autumn tailgate party at a Central Michigan University football game, and a first-class summer picnic for employees and their families. Also centering around this landmark anniversary were themed trade shows, company advertising and a memorial calendar.
With the anniversary celebration winding down Morbark remains nostalgic about it’s past.
“My father was a true innovator, his influence and dedication continue to impact those who work for Morbark today,” Morey says. The future looks bright as Morbark turns towards the next 50 years.