Best Small and Medium Workplaces in Manufacturing and Production

best small and medium workplaces in manufacturing and production

Fortune 

To determine the Best Workplaces in Manufacturing and Production in 2026, Fortune partnered with global people analytics firm <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.greatplacetowork.com/">Great Place to Work</a> to analyze survey feedback representing more than 106,000 U.S. employees. See also: the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://fortune.com/ranking/best-workplaces-manufacturing-production/2026">Best Large Workplaces in Manufacturing and Production</a>.

Employees say:"At CPDI, we believe that our greatest strength lies in our people. We are committed to providing a supportive and dynamic work environment where every team member is valued and empowered to reach their full potential. Our collaborative culture encourages innovation, teamwork, and personal growth, ensuring that each day brings new opportunities to learn and excel. We take pride in offering competitive benefits, opportunities for career advancement, and a strong focus on work-life balance. Our team members are not just employees, they are part of the CPDI family, contributing to meaningful projects that make a lasting impact."

Champion Packaging & Distribution

Employees say:"ELF is unique in that everyone I have met and worked with has a sense of kindness and empathy. People remember your birthday and get excited about your life milestones. Upper management remembers your name and seem genuinely invested in not only your career and what you contribute to the company, but who you are as a person."

e.l.f. Beauty

Employees say:"The management is very transparent and always willing to answer the hard questions. &nbsp;ATC celebrates everyone's successes and cares about their employees. ATC always offers professional development and encourages employees to learn and try out new jobs, not just stay in the same position forever."

American Transmission

Employees say:"This company truly cares about making a meaningful difference in people's lives. The owners consistently go out of their way to support employees, and when challenges arise, their first priority is the employee's well-being before considering operational impact."

Awake Window & Door

Employees say:"What stands out to me about Lantmannen is the real focus on building strong relationships, both within the team and with customers. People are trusted to own their work, and leadership is approachable and genuinely invested in helping employees succeed, which creates a supportive and accountable environment. I also appreciate the balance between driving results and taking care of people, rather than prioritizing one over the other. The emphasis on internal growth, cross training, and clear communication makes it a place where employees can grow and build a long term career."

Lantmannen Unibake USA

Employees say:"Mobia has been an extremely welcoming company from the start. &nbsp;I feel supported, seen, heard, and inspired since starting to work here. &nbsp;The company fosters meaningful relationships between employees. &nbsp;The company truly cares about professional and personal growth of its employees and facilitates a fantastic work/life balance."

Mobia Medical

Employees say:"The benefits are extremely rare and unique. You are truly listened to and respected. There is a "One Team" mindset, we are all on the same team working towards the same goals together. Everyone genuinely cares about one another and each other's well-being and wants to coach and build people up and see people succeed."

Zinpro

Employees say:"How much they care about their employees and their families is unique. So much flexibility is given in that area. Employees are able to work from home and take care of their children. The culture is unlike any company I have ever worked for. They are incredibly generous to employees and to local and global charities. They take us to many team building and leadership conferences which is amazing!"

MPParts

Employees say:"Transparency and connection between all levels of leadership and team members is truly unique. &nbsp;What this has been able to foster is a culture where everyone contributes and has a voice, which is truly unique. Leadership, from frontline through executives, are accessible and have honest communications and relationships with team members, which is not the case in many organizations of our size. Team members and leaders have the trust to be able to voice their thoughts and concerns and know that it will be received and considered."

Landscape Forms

Employees say:"The Siemon family is phenomenal at making sure no employee feels like just a number. They've also shown a continued openness to fully-remote workers, which has not gone unnoticed or underappreciated. I think they've done a wonderful job identifying high-impact remote workers and allowing those who give more to the business in that setting. The Siemon family and the HR department deserve recognition for it."

The Siemon Company

Employees say:"This company truly goes above and beyond to make everyone feel valued. I feel like I'm treated as an individual with individual needs that this company recognizes. This company is always adapting and striving to create the best possible environment to bring out the best qualities of each employee, providing the encouragement to be the best employee I can be for Ongweoweh, while respecting my needs as an individual."

Ongweoweh

Employees say:"The founders walk the walk and talk the talk. &nbsp;They care deeply about their employees. &nbsp;For example, during an all hands meeting, our People Team was rolling out a new time off policy. &nbsp;However, many of the production folks expressed concern about how that may affect them. &nbsp;After a lengthy discussion, one of the founders said, we hear you. &nbsp;We are going to go back and discuss other options. &nbsp;Shortly after, a survey was sent to the company and a better policy was adopted for the company as a whole."

EO Products

Employees say:"We have a really unique culture! The founders are super committed to culture being one of their top priorities, and ALWAYS do right by their people. We also have unlimited PTO, unique and usable healthcare, retreats that are actually nourishing and fun, ultimate transparency in decision making, a "your boss works for you" management style, all the way down to sending flowers for someone who's grieving or gifts for employee's spouses. This is definitely a unique place to work!"

Serenity Kids

Employees say:"We have an outstanding operational and management team that I am lucky enough to work with. &nbsp;Truly a "lets row this boat together" kind of group. &nbsp;The entire company wants each of the individuals to succeed. &nbsp;Fantastic place, fantastic industry, fantastic team. Can't say enough about Vector."

Vector Controls

Employees say:"There is a sincere and evident commitment by the leadership team to creating and maintaining a positive and constructive culture at Rockwell. &nbsp;While there is a fierce focus on hard work, performance, and results, there is an equal level of focus on individual employee support and healthy collaboration. &nbsp;It is unusual in my experience that each member of the management team actively contributes to a positive environment and a culture wherein everyone has the opportunity to find enjoyment and reward in their work."

Rockwell Medical

Employees say:"Employees are encouraged to balance their work and personal lives, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable work environment. Metso offers ample training and development opportunities, allowing employees to further their professional growth and career advancement. We have leadership training, mentor/mentee programs, and job rotational programs allowing employees continuous growth and development."

Metso

Employees say:"We have a positive atmosphere that is rare and truly valuable. One thing that makes this company unique is the leadership style, particularly how polite and considerate our boss is. That kind of respectful and supportive leadership creates a peaceful work environment where people feel safe to learn, share ideas, and show. It not only boosts individual development but also contributes to the overall growth and success of the company. "

V&A group

Employees say:"The strongest thing here is the team culture. People are willing to help each other and we collaborate well under pressure. The business is fast-paced and gives real responsibility. I love the exposure we get to C level leaders here. It is great to know we can talk to and understand the vision of our leaders; they are very accessible."

Bel USA

Employees say:"Good2grow has been by far the best organization I've ever worked for. Leadership from the top down has always fostered a great working environment and motivates us in the sales organization to continue to deliver big wins. They listen to employees and actually make changes happen if it makes sense for the business and that's all we can ask for. I love the opportunities to get promoted from within and their priority of developing their own talent. This allows good2grow to retain top performers!"

good2grow

Employees say:"Duckhorn stands out because of the people and the culture that was built over decades. There is a strong sense of pride in the brand heritage, product quality, and the authenticity behind the story, and that shows up in how teams operate and how seriously the company takes craftsmanship and reputation. Even during a transition period, many employees are still carrying forward the legacy ethos and community-focused culture that helped Duckhorn earn long-term trust and relevance in a way many competitors have not. What makes it a great place to work is being surrounded by people who care about doing things the right way and protecting what makes the brand special, while still looking for smart, modern ways to improve the business."

The Duckhorn Portfolio

Employees say:"The transparency of financial status, decisions, planning, etc. is unique here. Every month we have a meeting with all employees that tells us exactly where we are, good or bad. We spend this time to realign on our current goals as an entire organization. Everyone is a part of something bigger here and gets to contribute to the strategic initiatives our company is working through."

Miratech

Employees say:"Leaders are very much invested in the success of those that report to them and want them to succeed outside of work. Most companies seem only interested in employees in regard to how they benefit the organization, but KNIPEX cares about their staff for the sake of the staff's well being."

Knipex Tools

Employees say:"The camaraderie we have at ICS is very unique compared to places I've worked previously. &nbsp;People work well together, and we have a team that leans on one another. &nbsp;I also enjoy the efforts that are made to bring the team together, whether it be gatherings outside the office or the games/events we do internally."

ICS Corporation

Employees say:"They put a big emphasis on mental wellness and a healthy work-life balance. I've seen/worked for other companies that say they do, but don't really show it through their actions. But DCU actively tries to remove speed bumps and walls blocking employees from receiving the care they need and strongly encourage you to take time to yourself, spend time with family, relax, etc. and not overwhelm yourself with work."

Door Controls USA

Employees say:"I think they really care to hear opinions from every person at the company. I feel constantly supported and know I can talk to anyone in the company. I have never been somewhere where C suite treats each individual employee like they are important no matter their level. Our C suite will talk to every employee and address them by name!"

Jazwares

Employees say:"The organization is built on a lot of mutual trust and respect between various cross functional teams as well as between the executive level and the lower tiers of the company. It is a psychologically safe place to grow personally and contribute to the growth of the company outside of your typical role or job description."

Tru Fragrance & Beauty

Employees say:"This company has the lowest turnover rate for any other company I've worked at... that speaks volumes. I love the volunteer opportunities that allow us to give back to the community. I love the company parties we have and the catered lunches we get frequently. I don't think I've ever felt more appreciated at a company than I am here. I really do feel like they care about us as both employees and individuals."

ZLINE Kitchen and Bath

Employees say:"The management really cares about their employees. They value and allow for everyone's opinion and input, and we are seen as being part of the team working towards a common goal. All this is done through a productive, yet relaxed atmosphere. You feel like you can be yourself and express your thoughts and ideas without judgement."

VendTech International

Employees say:"Culture is a priority. The company only hires those who will fit the culture. This screening process helps avoid any conflict or insubordination because the new hire will be an excellent candidate for the team. The company also prioritizes benefits. I love having peace of mind knowing that medical bills can be avoided due to the company's investment into our health and wellness."

Enovation Controls

Employees say:"They really care about their employees. &nbsp;They have events for employees and their family members throughout the year that make you feel very welcomed and connected. A lot of companies say they want their employees to have a great work/life balance, but it's evident they truly mean it here. I really appreciate that."

Monarch Distributing

Employees say:"Management does go out of the way to keep us informed and answer Q&amp;As on the regular. The information given does match up with what happens. My co-workers are dedicated to their jobs and willing to go the extra mile to make sure things get done/we are supported and not just shuffled aside."

Nova Measuring Instruments

Employees say:"Since I have been here, I have seen no evidence of drama or politics. &nbsp;Often in places I have worked, it is readily apparent that these things are present and often detract from the work environment. &nbsp;It truly feels like a team that is all pulling in the same direction."

Sega Sammy Creation USA

Employees say:"Care for people is something that many companies will talk about, but Tractor is the first place I have worked that truly embodies this. In previous workplaces I've felt a constant conflict between work/life balance and the need to hide those parts of my life. Here, I feel respected and cheered and treated like an adult who is more than capable of handling the tasks ahead of me. This has allowed me the freedom to be more creative and do my best work."

Tractor Beverages

Employees say:"The health care benefits are like no other company. The company will help cover costs at no expense to the employee. The working environment is very personable. There is no corporate structure; everyone is treated like a second family here. This helps create a great company to work for and keeps us all aligned with company values, goals, and success."

Q-PAC Systems

Employees say:"The people I work with genuinely care about each other and take great pride in their work. &nbsp;My co-workers are constantly taking interest and helping one another with their lives outside of work. &nbsp;It's such a great working environment. Leadership is transparent and tells us how the business is doing in detail."

Essex Industries

Employees say:"The company values are integrity and dedicated to creating value for customers. &nbsp;Company management focus on customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, shareholder satisfaction and community satisfaction. We also have bonuses to encourage people to do the right things and do things right."

Greenview Floors International

Employees say:"I love the focus on team building even though the company is fully remote. I feel it is very unique to build such strong work relationships through virtual work. I also love the focus on healthy living and how that comes through not only the physical products at Bragg, but also through the culture."

Bragg Live Food Products

Employees say:"What makes this company stand out is our employee ownership. It genuinely influences how people work together - decisions are made with care, information is shared openly, and there's a shared commitment to long-term success. Access to leadership is another unique strength. Senior leaders are visible, approachable, and willing to roll up their sleeves, which builds trust and connection across the organization. There's also a strong sense of pride in our history and the products we make. People know their work matters, and that creates a meaningful place to build a career."

Barr Brands International

Employees say:"One of the most unique and inspiring aspects of this company is its dedication to advancing scientific understanding and creating solutions that benefit the world. Whether it's through cutting-edge research, sustainable technologies, or data-driven innovation, employees here are encouraged to explore, learn, and contribute to projects that have real-world impact. There's a strong culture of curiosity where learning about science isn't just encouraged, it's embedded in the work itself."

ATCC

Employees say:"I really appreciate the multitude of opportunities to contribute to major initiatives and work cross functionally across the organization. There's a lot going on but it's really exciting to have so many opportunities to learn and grow. &nbsp;PNC hires incredibly kind and competent people, and it really makes a difference in the working environment. The company-subsidized lunches are such a nice perk and take the mental load off packing your lunch for work on in-office days. Half day Fridays are an absolute game changer as it gives me to catch up on work (if I choose) or personal things that I didn't get to during the week which allows for me to fully relax on the weekend."

Premier Nutrition

Employees say:"We celebrate everyone's birthday in the office with a birthday lunch. It's really nice to have the time to sit down and talk while also celebrating a milestone. "Austrian Fridays" are also great as we're able to leave earlier on Fridays and enjoy the rest of the day. It's a nice headstart to the weekend. When we do team bonding events or group outings, I feel like I always learn something new and interesting about my colleagues that brings us closer and easier to talk to."

FunderMax GmbH

Employees say:"The team is very supportive and collaborative, which makes it easy to learn from others and solve problems together. There are plenty of opportunities to work directly with hardware and new technologies, which helps develop practical skills quickly. Management is approachable, and team members can share ideas or concerns openly, which creates a transparent and respectful work environment."

GameChange Solar

Employees say:"FC is unique in that it's open and low stress (for the most part). Leadership listens, changes happen quickly, and there's a genuine respect for people's lives outside of work. Problems get solved instead of ignored, and the culture is friendly and supportive. It's rare to find a workplace that allows employees to feel comfortable, supported, and able to make a real impact day to day."

Flexo Concepts

Employees say:"I feel that this company really values their employees and takes their ideas and opinions on how to do things more efficiently to heart. I love that they care about our mental and physical health. I enjoy that they do fun activities for us throughout the year (costume party at halloween, pinewood derby, cookouts in the summer, company outings, holiday parties, keeping ice cream on hand in the summer, etc.). I also love that even the office dogs are considered employees here. :)"

InnerSpace

Employees say:"I love it! Team members work closely together to make it a wonderful atmosphere to work in all departments. I would like to extend my appreciation and thank you to the company for hiring me. I look forward to many more years of growth in this company and thank you management and leadership team for all your help and all you do for us -- y'all are very appreciated from me."

Hans Kissle Company

Employees say:"I have never worked at a place where everyone is so friendly and happy. People from other departments I don't even know or have spoken to will walk by and cheerfully say hi. It's not just one person. It's happened with several. People are just happy here. There is no sense of toxicity or discontent, at least that I'm aware of."

Bath Concepts Industries

Employees say:"This company genuinely celebrates its employees beyond the workplace recognizing milestones such as graduations, childbirth, homeownership, and even the accomplishments of our children. It's also the first organization I've worked for that hosts a Christmas party and an employee award ceremony, which speaks volumes about how deeply they value their people."

Copperweld, Agave Wire, & Interstate Wire

Employees say:"The sense of family and community here is very strong. People care about each other, about the work we do, and we all have a tremendous sense of pride for the work we do. This makes it a fun place to work because there is a sense that we are all in this together."

V&V Supremo Foods

Employees say:"I appreciate the amount of freedom I have when it comes to doing my job. I feel like management trusts me to do a good job and I have never felt micromanaged since I started working at Sugar Mountain which is really refreshing. I always feel like I can share my ideas and they will be taken into consideration at the very least, and I do feel like I have made a big impact at the company in a short amount of time."

Sugar Mountain

See which workplaces made this year's list.

To produce the Fortune Best Workplaces in Manufacturing &amp; Production, Fortune partnered with the people analytics firm Great Place To Work®. Great Place To Work has been surveying employees around the world about their workplace experiences for 30 years. Great Place To Work has developed a set of themes and metrics that not only reveal whether employees feel their workplace is great, but also predict retention, agility, and overall business success. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Using their proprietary Trust Index™ survey, Great Place To Work measures the core of what they know creates great workplaces — key behaviors that drive trust in management, connection with colleagues, and loyalty to the company. &nbsp;&nbsp;The survey enables employees to share confidential quantitative and qualitative feedback about their organization’s culture by responding to 60 statements on a five-point scale and answering two open-ended questions. &nbsp;&nbsp;Employees tell Great Place To Work whether or not leaders are accessible, if they communicate honestly and clearly, and if their actions match their words. Employees tell if they feel respected as individuals, if they receive support for their well-being and personal development, and if they have opportunities to contribute, and appreciation for their work. They tell whether they believe their company is fair related to pay, profits, promotions, recognition, favoritism, and opportunities for growth. They tell if they are proud of their work, their team, and their company, if they feel they make a difference, and if their work is meaningful. And they tell if they enjoy the people they work with, if they feel cared for, and if they can be themselves. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;List rankings are based on this employee feedback, which is analyzed to determine the extent to which this experience is shared by the full workforce. Great Place To Work measures the differences in survey responses across demographic groups and roles within each organization to assess both the quality and consistency of the employee experience. Statements are weighted according to their relevance in describing the most important aspects of an equitable workplace. &nbsp;&nbsp;The best companies create great work experiences not just for full-time managers, but also for their part-time employees on the front lines, for those who’ve just joined and those who’ve spent their whole career there, for every race and ethnicity, gender, neurotype, or other demographic in the organization Great Place To Work looks at it all. Companies with the broadest set of employees who report positive workplace experience receive the highest rankings on lists. In order to analyze employee feedback in context, Great Place To Work collects information from each company including their industry, revenue, size, and employee demographics. They identify the organizations that offer the most generous, caring and innovative cultures reflecting a genuine commitment to meet the diversity of their people’s needs inside and outside the workplace as validated by what employees themselves report in survey results.&nbsp;&nbsp;Because employee feedback drives these rankings, surveys must meet strict requirements for how they are distributed and the percentage of employees who respond to ensure they accurately represent honest feedback from the company’s full population.&nbsp;&nbsp;To be eligible for the Fortune Best Workplaces in Manufacturing &amp; Production list, companies must be Great Place To Work Certified™, have 10 or more employees in the U.S., and be in the manufacturing &amp; production industry. Companies with 10 to 999 people are considered for the small and medium category; companies with 1,000 employees or more are considered for the large category. Companies appearing on Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For® list rank at the top.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the last year, Great Place To Work surveyed companies employing 8.4 million people in the U.S. and received 1.3 million survey responses. Of those, nearly 107,000 responses were received from employees at companies who were eligible for the 2025 Fortune Best Workplaces in Manufacturing &amp; Production list, and this list is based on their feedback. &nbsp;&nbsp;To find out more about how to become Great Place To Work Certified™ or to apply to this or other Best Workplaces lists, visit greatplacetowork.com.&nbsp;

Best Small and Medium Workplaces in Manufacturing and Production

Best Small and Medium Workplaces in Manufacturing and Production Ranking (2026)