Explore our growing library of cases studies and discover how middle market companies tackle their biggest challenges to unlock growth. These case studies showcase real-world strategies that drive growth, efficiency, and resilience across industries.
Compared to their larger peers, middle market manufacturers face resource constraints—human, financial, and otherwise—which makes process improvement and cost reduction top priorities. According to the midyear 2025 Middle Market Indicator, more than three-quarters of middle market manufacturers are focused on operational optimization, with many turning to digital tools and automation to ease workforce pressures and improve efficiency. Yet with nearly one-third citing technological change as a leading business risk, the path forward isn’t without complexity.
Learn how one specialty food manufacturer is navigating these opportunities and challenges firsthand as it automates key parts of its production process to support rapid growth and stay competitive in an increasingly digital world.
In the middle market, major transitions—such as a change in CEO, acquisition of another business or sale of the company—are extremely common. But since many middle market companies are privately owned by founders who play a major hands-on role in the business, such transitions are often extremely personal. Learn how one middle market founder, Michael Stanley of CIS Group, navigated both the business and personal challenges involved in selling 80% of the company he and his wife built from scratch and operated for 30 years.
As a growing interior design firm, Tom Stringer Design Partners was processing thousands of paper checks each year to cover business and vendor expenses. By transitioning to a commercial payment card program, the firm not only eliminated a time-consuming practice but also unlocked more than $165,000 in rebate cash over three years. The shift streamlined operations, reduced costs, and modernized how the firm manages relationships with its vendors, turning payments into a source of efficiency and financial advantage.
As both a technology consulting firm and a middle market business itself, Weidenhammer found itself uniquely positioned to explore the true impact of AI—first internally, then for its clients. With the strategic rollout of Microsoft Copilot, the firm increased productivity across teams, empowered early adopters, and built a culture of experimentation that is now shaping its long-term AI strategy.
Grote Company’s strategic international expansion transformed it from a U.S.-focused manufacturer into a global leader, with nearly 50% of its food processing equipment revenue now coming from overseas. By establishing local operations, hiring regional experts, and adapting to market demands, the company overcame supply chain and regulatory challenges to drive sustained growth.