Tell us about your business and the family members involved.
We were founded in 1959 by our grandfather, John Mulder. Today, we—Aaron and John—continue the family legacy. In the second generation, the business was run by our dad, Dale Mulder, uncle Mike Mulder, and cousin Doug Roetman.
We serve metal forming and machining companies with chrome plating for industries like automotive, plumbing, and construction, creating decorative finishes.
What are you most proud of as a family business?
We are most proud of our team, the men and women that we call part of the Master Finish family. We work hard to build a culture of teamwork, honesty, innovation, and service in all we do at our company. We work hard to learn and grow together leveraging everyone in ways where they are playing to their strengths. We find ways to celebrate together, and we suffer and mourn together.
What innovations or industry changes are you most excited about?
Over the years we have seen many changes in the automotive industry. We’re proud to lead the shift to trivalent chrome—especially dark black finishes—for a high-end look with lower environmental impact and safer chemistry.
What opportunities are you finding within your current challenges?
Today we are serving the global community and are facing a challenge of tariffs and their impact on our customers. We are seeing some great new opportunities to bid on programs historically made overseas, though others are delaying decisions amid uncertainty.
What’s the best business or leadership advice you’ve ever received?
Dale taught us many great things about the company, industry, and life. We’ve been using EOS for nearly 10 years—it’s been a great system for keeping us moving forward and improving our company.
What makes West Michigan a great place to do business?
West Michigan’s business community is highly collaborative and through Family Business Alliance and the GR Chamber we’re able to learn best practices from a variety of industries. At Master Finish, we serve sectors ranging from medical and automotive to furniture and consumer goods, allowing us to gain insights from a broad and diverse customer base.
Why would you recommend that a business get involved with the Family Business Alliance and the Chamber?
Business is not conducted in a vacuum. Success relies on strong networks of vendors, customers, and peers. We’ve found great value in the educational events and peer groups offered by Family Business Alliance and the GR Chamber—they help us stay informed, connect with others, and find collaborative solutions to shared challenges.