The management team at Fuller Industries LLC, which is seeing “exciting things happening every day,” recently took the opportunity to re-introduce the company to the community, said Debra F. Powers, chief financial officer.

            Dozens of local residents heard the latest news from Fuller at a Great Bend Chamber of Commerce event.

            “We had a good turnout and appreciate the chamber’s help,” Powers said. “There are great things happening at Fuller and we want to share them with residents of Great Bend and surrounding communities.”

            Powers and Jon Nix, chief executive officer, represent Nix Venture Partners. They are providing Fuller’s management services, while collaborating with board members and employees to increase sales and build more awareness about Fuller’s products and history.

            “We have been here several months now and see progress every day,” Powers said. “We try not to change too much too soon. Instead, gradual improvement is the way to go.”

            Recent changes include building new offices for expanding custom-brush and private-label products; and making improvements to the cafeteria.

            “In addition,” Powers noted, “we have hired about a dozen sales representatives and opened doors to new partnerships.”

The installation of Enterprise Resource Planning software is in the works. This specialized manufacturing and financial software aids the flow of communication between departments, Powers explained.

            “We are keeping a close eye on costs and purchasing, as well,” she added. “Establishing even more partnerships when appropriate is a long-term goal because our priority is more sales; we want to continue the legacy of this great company.”

            Powers noted she has been familiar with Fuller products throughout her life and appreciates the opportunity to be associated with the company. She also is becoming better acquainted with central Kansans.

            “The people here are friendly and inviting,” she said. “I like smaller communities and am happy to be here. Also, it is nice to see all the restaurants and hotels with even more opening up.”

            Rick Ball, long-time Great Bend businessman and Fuller’s chairman of the board, said Nix Venture Partners is a good fit for the local business.

            “Nix Venture Partners is facilitating the next chapter of the company’s growth and expansion,” Ball said. “Jon Nix and Debra Powers are currently in the process of revamping technology and manufacturing processes to make Fuller a more dominant player in the industry.”

            Fuller Industries LLC, formerly known as The Fuller Brush Company, manufactures commercial cleaning supplies, custom brushes and private- label chemicals. It was founded in 1906.