June Ambassador Tour: Van Diest Supply Co.

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June Ambassador Tour: Van Diest Supply Co.

For the June Chamber Ambassador meeting, members had the chance to tour Van Diest Supply Co., one of the area’s largest employers and a major contributor to our local economy. Just two miles west of Webster City, the company’s impressive 56-building campus highlights its decades-long commitment to innovation, manufacturing, and community.

The group was welcomed by President & CEO Jake Van Diest, who kicked things off with a video that walked through the company’s history—from its start in Bob Van Diest’s home back in 1956 to today’s operation, which now employs nearly 700 people. It was a great reminder of how big things often come from humble beginnings.

Chairman of the Board Bob Van Diest also took time to personally greet the Ambassadors and thank them for visiting, reinforcing the company’s strong ties to the community and support for local partnerships.

Clark Vold, Manufacturing Coordinator, then led the group through a guided tour of several key parts of the facility. The first stop was the formulation lab, where a team of specialists works around the clock to test and sample every material that comes in or goes out. These samples are logged and stored for years, ensuring quality and traceability for all products—a great example of their high standards and attention to detail.

Ambassadors then visited one of the packaging facilities, where products are prepped and ready for distribution. Van Diest works closely with several local partners during this process, including Tasler Pallet and Mauser Packaging, highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting other area businesses and keeping things local whenever possible.

From start to finish, it was clear that Van Diest Supply Co. operates with a strong sense of purpose, pride, and community investment. As the largest employer in the region, their success truly benefits the entire area.

Chamber Ambassadors participating in the tour include:

Aliya Streigle – Abens Realty
Sunshine Duffy – The Cat Hut
Katie Kempter – First State Bank
Angie Anderson – The Daily Freeman Journal
Debby Pruismann – Peoples Credit Union
Lisa Johnson – WCF Financial Bank
Ann McLaughlin – The Peerman Group

Chamber Board of Directors

Mark Fergusion – Karl Webster City

Ketta Lubberstedt-Arjes – Kendall Young Library

Event Committee Members:

Ron & Kathy Birkestrand – Osweiler’s

Blake Arjes

The Chamber Ambassador program gives members a behind-the-scenes look at key businesses and projects shaping the future of Webster City. Ambassadors serve as informed representatives of the Chamber, helping build connections, celebrate milestones, and share the story of our thriving local economy. If you're interested in joining or learning more, reach out to any Chamber Ambassador or Board of Directors, call the office at 515-832-2564, or visit visitwebstercityiowa.com.