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MMT Chat: One Mold Builder's Strategic Diversification Journey
Dave LaGrow discusses Maximum Mold Group's evolution from a single shop to a diverse manufacturing enterprise with four distinct facilities.
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In this Chat, I sit down with Dave LaGrow of Maximum Mold Group who shares the story of its beginnings as a contract shop in 1996 to its current status as a multi-facility manufacturing operation.
LaGrow explains that Maximum Mold started by handling various machining jobs, particularly for automation companies. As the company grew, strategic acquisitions became central to their expansion strategy rather than building new facilities. Their first acquisition came in 2015 with Michigan Mold (rebranded as Max 2), which allowed them to continue serving contract machining customers while expanding their mold-building operations.
Between 2015 and 2019, Maximum Mold Group acquired three businesses.
After winning a Leadtime Leader Award in 2018, LaGrow notes they received multiple inquiries from shop owners interested in selling their businesses. This led to the acquisition of Magnum, a prototype facility with specialized welding and testing equipment. While Magnum previously focused primarily on air induction components for automotive applications, the shift toward electric vehicles pushed a business shift.
LaGrow details how Magnum now specializes in machining 3D-printed parts, particularly for automotive applications requiring precise finishing. To support this work, they recently invested in new five-axis equipment from Hurco.
The Chat also highlights how the four facilities work together, with each managed by experienced leaders who communicate regularly. All locations operate on the same ERP system, but LaGrow credits the success to strong relationships with his managers, many of whom have been with the company for around 10 years.
Looking ahead, LaGrow expresses interest in expanding into automation equipment manufacturing, which would create additional work for all facilities in the group. He describes Maximum Mold Group as a "diverse manufacturing group" capable of handling a wide range of manufacturing needs beyond just molds and dies.