History of 3M Prairie du Chien

3M first entered the employment picture in Prairie du Chien when it purchased the Burgess Cellulose Company in 1964. The purpose of this acquisition was to add the sponge process to 3M’s portfolio and introduce a line of products called laminates.

In 1967, construction was completed on a second manufacturing facility where home care (Scotch-Brite™) products would be manufactured.

The addition of an automated “high rise” distribution center was completed and operational in 1983.

In 1992, one additional manufacturing building was constructed to produce the Scotch-Brite™ Never Rust™ Soap Pads.

In 1996, 3M Prairie du Chien became one common site under the Abrasives Manufacturing Organization (AMO).

A decision to transfer the laminate sponge processes to 3M Tonawanda (New York) in June, 2001, led to the closure of the original building. The remaining products and employees moved to the other two buildings. Today, the Crawford County Administration building sits on the former Building 1 site.

The first building constructed by 3M has experienced two physical expansions, beyond the distribution center addition, providing additional manufacturing capability. The facility has embraced the Lean Six Sigma methodology as a business model and is constantly seeking opportunities to increase productivity and material flow while maintaining a high level of employee morale.

The plant currently has approximatel6y 535,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing and warehouse under roof on 60 acres of land. Over 500 employees work at the site.

3M Prairie du Chien was proud to receive a Western Wisconsin Employer of Choice Award in 2006. Our facility was recognized as a company that has success in attracting and retraining its employees. We recognize that opportunity and innovation are keys to employee retention along with a safe and clean work environment.