New BioFit President Ed Metzger Predicts Bright Future
Bowling Green, OH, April 5, 2007 - BioFit Engineered Products, a northwest Ohio-based manufacturer and worldwide supplier of ergonomic seating and table solutions, has announced the promotion of Ed Metzger from executive vice president to president. Metzger will be taking over the reins from Dale Barnard, a 35-year veteran of the industry who has been instrumental in the evolution of the business leading up to and since its founding in 1993.
"Ed has the background, desire and knowledge to improve us," Barnard said. "He's earned the highest level of respect from both employees and ownership. I'm completely confident in him."
With experience that predates the early origins of the company, Metzger has spent the better part of two decades learning the trade. As a result, he has gained unique perspectives on what has distinguished the company in the past, while developing strategies for its success in the future.
"The family-feel of our business is something you'll find everywhere from the shop floor to our administrative offices," Metzger said. "Everyone here knows each other by name. They care. And, with more than 100 employees, that's special.
"You could say our greatest strength is our people," Metzger continued. "So, we've developed incentive programs designed to encourage them to take a personal interest in our company. When we do well, they do well - as do all our stakeholders."
Metzger pointed out that the importance of "family" is something that extends to BioFit's commitment to give back to the community. He noted that BioFit routinely donates chairs to fundraisers, supports local sports, and even helps distribute food to underserved residents.
Yet, this kind of goodwill is only possible when there are strategies in place to sustain and build revenue. On this matter, Metzger describes plans to improve operationally to reduce costs, while investing in research and development to compete on the style front.
"The key is designing products that we can manufacture here," Metzger said. "That way we can build products that hold greater appeal for emerging markets and maintain quality control at the same time. In doing so, we hope to generate sustainable growth at around 10% a year."
It's a goal that seems well within Metzger's reach, particularly when you listen to what his predecessor has to say on the subject. "Even though I will remain on the management board of BioFit, I can tell you I won't be looking over his shoulder," said Dale Barnard. "Our goal is to return the business to the cutting edge of the industry and Ed's the guy to do it."
Located in Bowling Green, Ohio, BioFit Engineered Products is an industry-leading manufacturer of ergonomic chairs, carts, cafeteria seating and mobile tables for office, industrial, educational, healthcare, bio- and high-tech, hospitality, and custom environments. To learn more, log on to www.biofit.com
Contact Name: Liz Sworden
Title: Marketing Director
E-mail: Liz.Sworden@biofit.com
