In a sector where price often drives decisions, MBW has taken a different approach—one that prioritizes quality and craftsmanship, with nearly every product proudly made in the USA. This Wisconsin-based manufacturer is redefining what it means to produce durable, reliable compaction and concrete equipment. From its very first vibratory plate compactor, designed to reduce maintenance costs for contractors, MBW has stayed true to its mission of building products that last.
Founded in 1967 by Helmut Maass and Frank Multerer Sr., MBW began its journey in a modest contractor’s shed. The founders, experts in mechanical vibration and soil compaction, quickly made a name in the industry by developing reliable equipment that met the growing demands of contractors. As the concrete industry evolved, so did MBW. The company grew its product line to include a wide range of equipment, all while staying true to its core values of durability and performance. MBW also expanded in 1987 to develop a subsidiary in the UK. In 2023 MBW added a state-of-the-art facility to its grounds. This new building now serves as the hub for research and development, testing, and administrative operations, ensuring that MBW remains at the forefront of industry advancements.
MBW’s success is driven by a dedicated team of engineers, manufacturers, and support staff, all united by a shared passion for delivering the highest-quality products and services to its customers. For this team, collaboration is key—each team member works together with a common goal: to uphold the company’s mission and values. This collaborative approach has been a cornerstone of MBW’s ability to innovate and produce industry-leading compaction and concrete finishing equipment. “Our purpose, and this is from day one when engineering takes on a new project, is to provide a better job site experience. Our products have to be higher quality, they have to last longer, they have to hit harder, they have to travel faster, they have to be better for the operator,” says Andy Multerer, owner and CEO of MBW. “They have to be something superior. Every one of our products has to provide a better job site experience somehow. We can’t make products just to be cheaper. That’s unacceptable for us.”
MBW has established its reputation with an unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and operator safety. This mindset has allowed MBW to continually push the boundaries of what its equipment can achieve. Known for producing products that are durable and low-maintenance, and by focusing on delivering reliable equipment that improves job site efficiency, MBW consistently meets the needs of contractors who rely on its tools to perform in tough conditions when equipment failure can mean lost time and money. “We engineer everything in-house. We manufacture nearly everything here. We assemble it here. This allows us to maintain a really high standard of quality control on our products,” says Ian Arthur, Marketing Coordinator at MBW. “We believe there is always room for improvement in productivity, safety, and longevity, but we have clients posting videos running equipment they have used for over 20 years. That is not common in this industry.”
MBW offers a wide range of high-quality products including rammers, rollers, walk-behind and ride-on trowels, and wet and truss screeds, but its vibratory plates stand out as the company’s flagship offering. The MBW 2000 series vibratory plates, in particular, are sold worldwide and are highly competitive in the market. Known for their strength and reliability, these plates are a staple of the company’s compaction line and are regarded as one of the main products that have cemented MBW’s reputation.
MBW’s evolution of products reflects a commitment to addressing the growing need for safer, more productive job sites. Battery-powered solutions and innovations in anti-vibration technology exemplify this dedication. By integrating features that enhance safety and reduce environmental impact, MBW provides contractors with tools that improve overall project efficiency and outcomes. Its anti-vibration systems enhance user safety by minimizing vibration but also extends the equipment’s longevity, reducing maintenance needs and ensuring consistent performance. “We really focus on anti-vibration technology; designing and engineering the equipment so that the load on the operator is minimized as much as possible,” says Arthur. “The goal is for that vibration to be directed into the ground that you’re trying to work, not the operator’s arms and hands.” By focusing on such innovations, MBW helps contractors complete their projects more efficiently and with higher quality results for a more productive and safer job site experience.
In February 2024, MBW was honored with the prestigious Experts’ Choice Award in the Innovative Product Awards at World of Concrete® for its BullVibe® vibratory bull float attachment. Recognized as a sustainable innovation, the BullVibe represents MBW’s commitment to advancing the construction industry through incremental improvements that enhance productivity, safety, and efficiency. Powered by the Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM™ platform, the BullVibe® offers adjustable vibration control, durable sealed components, and universal mounting brackets for versatile use on job sites. Its integrated lights improve visibility in low-light conditions, making it a valuable addition to any contractor’s toolkit. “The BullVibe® is a great addition to our product line. The contractor feedback has been phenomenal,” says Multerer. “There are competitive products out there, but the MBW BullVibe® is unique in that it is a sealed system and in that we were able to work with Milwaukee Tools to integrate their battery platform.”
“The BullVibe® is a great addition to our product line. The contractor feedback has been phenomenal.”
Building on MBW’s recent accolade, the company’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its products and in its approach to customer relationships. At MBW, understanding and connecting with its diverse customer base is crucial to its business strategy. Its clientele includes a range of professionals in the construction industry, from large national rental companies and independent dealers to contractors and laborers who rely on its equipment daily. MBW’s approach to dealer relationships is centered around fostering long-term partnerships. MBW seeks dealers committed to learning about its equipment and who appreciate that selling goes beyond just price competition. “We like to work with dealers who are willing to learn about the equipment; dealers who are willing to demonstrate hands-on. Dealers who align with this philosophy are ideal partners in representing MBW products,” says Multerer.
To support its dealers and ensure the effective representation of its products in the market, MBW offers a unique perks program allowing customers to leverage their purchases for additional value. MBW also provides extensive training. This includes hosting schools where students receive hands-on training with MBW’s equipment. These sessions cover everything from understanding the features of the equipment to practical applications and maintenance. By offering such in-depth training, MBW ensures future tradespeople understand the value of safe and quality equipment on the job site. This education piece also extends to the sales team who participate in ride-alongs and direct training sessions directly with dealers and end users. This personalized approach helps strengthen dealer relationships and ensures that the MBW brand is consistently represented with expertise and trust in the product line.
MBW’s reach is global, with a strong presence in North America and Europe. Its dealer network spans across Central and South America, and Australia, making its products accessible to a broad international audience. Despite this wide distribution, MBW remains focused on maintaining high-quality relationships with each dealer, which is integral to its global strategy.
To connect with customers, MBW employs a dual approach. While it targets both dealers and end users, there is a significant emphasis on reaching out to contractors directly. This strategy includes leveraging social media and influencer partnerships to showcase how its equipment is used in real-world applications. MBW’s blueprint combining innovative product development with robust dealer support and targeted marketing ensures its reputation as a leader in the construction equipment industry. A focus on building strong relationships with dealers and engaging directly with end-users underscores its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.
MBW’s formula for adapting to the evolving market is built on a foundation of innovation, customer focus, and strategic partnerships. By remaining attuned to the needs of its customers and the latest industry trends, MBW adapts its product offerings and marketing methodologies to stay ahead of the curve. This forward-thinking approach ensures that its equipment meets current demands and anticipates future needs.
Also central to MBW’s growth strategy is a significant investment in research and development. MBW is continuously refining its existing product line, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of innovation, durability, and performance. MBW’s focus on R&D is complemented by substantial investments in its manufacturing facilities and technology. Advanced manufacturing processes, computer-aided design, and the new R&D and testing facility enable MBW to create more efficient and user-friendly equipment. “We’re always looking to improve,” says Arthur. “Even if it’s something that’s doing well, we always believe there’s room for improvement.”
On the business side, the company leverages technology for inventory management, customer relationship management, and digital marketing, for greater efficiency, and to reach a broader audience.
As the team at MBW looks forward, they remain committed to expanding its product line while continually refining and enhancing its existing offerings. This includes relaunching its mortar mixer line that was paused during COVID-19 due to rising material costs and redesigning the gas ScreeDemon™. By staying true to its strengths and not becoming sidetracked by peripheral trends, MBW aims to produce high-quality, productive equipment that meets the evolving needs of the construction industry.
The company is also poised for growth through the strategic expansion of its dealer network. MBW seeks to build partnerships with dealers who share its values and vision, particularly focusing on opportunities in Canada. This expansion aligns with its goal of increasing its market presence while ensuring that its compaction and concrete products continue to be represented effectively across every region where customers demand quality products and an elevated customer experience.
