Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | April 7, 2025 | Worcester Business Journal 17 M A N U F A C T U R I N G F O C U S Biagioni is creating a future for employees BY ERIC CASEY WBJ Managing Editor J ohn Biagioni's enthusiasm for creating a productive and happy working environment is read- ily apparent, only rivaled by the passion he shows for the niche-yet-critical machined compo- nents his company produces. Every part displayed in his office tells a unique story about the history of Lampin Corp. At a time when manufacturers across the United States are being bought and stripped for parts by private equity firms, Biagioni has placed a can-do attitude and an employee-first mantra at the center of Lampin's mission. Since taking over as the Uxbridge-based company's president in 2022, he has worked to secure a future for its owner employees at a time when the national industry workforce is shrinking, even growing the firm through acquisition. "It's really about creating that oppor- tunity for the next generation," Biagioni said. Founded in 1962 as the Laminated Pinion Gear Co., the modern Lampin Corp. became 100% employee-owned about 20 years ago, giving its employees a stake in the company's success and a seat at the table when key decisions are being made. is collaborative spirit at the Ux- bridge-based company extends right down to the shop floor, where workers are encouraged to work cooperatively to solve problems and are given the free- dom to fail in pursuit of innovative new ideas and products, said Biagioni. Understanding the importance of a happy and cooperative workforce, Bi- agioni uses performance-based bonuses and career development opportunities to keep its workers motivated to continu- ously improve themselves. e company's employee democratic ownership structure is what sets it apart from others, he said. "With an [employee stock ownership plan], it's all based on the number of hours that you work," Biagioni said. "So as long as you put in the time and effort, and you stick it out, you will get paid. We only try to make enough money to satisfy our expenses, pay for our employ- ee base going forward, and investments. ere's no man taking a skim off the top." Lampin's focus on workers isn't just limited to people employed by the firm. Seeking to foster the growth of the next generation, Lampin offers on-site mentorship and helps initiatives to boost STEAM education, including supporting the Whitinsville-based Blackstone Valley Education Foundation. Lampin manufactures everything from eyeglass components utilized by firms like BJ's Optical of Westborough and Lenscraers to high-tech parts used by the military. e defense industry accounts for about 15% of the firm's business, said Bi- agioni. One example is Lampin craing components of the elevator systems for the U.S. Navy hospital ship USNS Mercy. e United States has lost a quarter over a quarter of all domestic manu- facturing jobs since 2000, according to the U.S. Joint Economic Commit- tee. Despite this, Lampin continues to grow under Biagioni's watch, acquiring Douglas-based Monalex Manufacturing in January. e firm remains committed to domestic manufacturing, acquiring about 98% of its materials from domestic suppliers, he said. Despite the success and growth Lampin has achieved under Biagioni's watchful eye since he took over leader- ship in 2022, he's already looking toward the firm's next chapter. "I feel great about the [Lampin] team," he said. "We have got a couple more key players to add on, and then I can move on to the board and transition the company to someone else that can take it and double it." MANUFACTURING CHAMPION - SMALL COMPANY John Biagioni President Lampin Corp., in Uxbridge Birthplace: Providence Residence: Northbridge What is the best thing about the manufacturing industry? "Manufacturing provides a pathway for those not going to college, a means to have a good life. It also provides a pathway for continual learning, which translates to more opportunities and enrichment. The one thing constant in manufacturing is change and the adaptation to it." W PHOTOS | COURTESY OF LAMPIN CORP. With John Biagioni at the helm, Lampin Corp. has doubled down on its commitment to its employees and sourcing its parts domestically.

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