Fortifi Bank Finances LION Group Expansion in Berlin Facility
LION Group, Inc., a global leader in personal protective equipment and fire-training technologies for first responders, has announced a significant renovation and expansion of its manufacturing facility in Berlin, Wisconsin. The project is being financed by Fortifi Bank, strengthening the company’s long-term commitment to the region and supporting continued growth in the production of its industry-leading protective gloves for firefighters.
The Berlin facility, originally brought into LION’s global manufacturing network through its 2011 acquisition of Safeguard America, serves as the company’s center for high-performance structural firefighting gloves and specialty protective handwear. The upcoming expansion includes facility upgrades, workflow enhancements, and new production capabilities designed to meet increasing national demand for LION’s NFPA-certified gloves.
“A long-term investment in our people, our mission, and this community.”
“Berlin has been an important part of LION’s story for more than a decade,” said Andy Schwartz, Owner and Chief Procurement Officer of LION Group. “This expansion represents a long-term investment in our people, our mission of protecting first responders, and the Berlin community. The demand for high-quality, American-made protective gear continues to grow, and this project ensures we can meet that need for years to come.”
A partnership built on shared values
Fortifi Bank partnered with LION on financing the project and expressed excitement for what the expansion means for the region.
“We are incredibly proud to support LION’s continued growth here in Wisconsin,” said Greg Lundberg, President & CEO of Fortifi Bank. “LION’s work directly impacts the safety of the people who protect all of us. Their investment in Berlin reinforces the strength of local manufacturing and brings lasting economic value to our communities.”
John Mirr, Business Banker at Fortifi Bank, added: “LION is a world-class company with deep roots and a clear commitment to innovation. Supporting this expansion was an easy decision. It’s exciting to see a global industry leader choosing to grow right here in Berlin.”
Strengthening a global mission: from Wisconsin to the world
The expansion will increase production capacity, improve facility efficiency, and create opportunities for future workforce growth. By modernizing the Berlin plant, LION further solidifies its position as the world’s largest family-owned manufacturer of fire-protective clothing and a major supplier to fire departments, military units, and emergency responders across the globe.
“Everything we make is designed to help firefighters return home safely,” Schwartz added. “Berlin plays a critical role in that mission.”
The project is expected to be completed Spring 2026.
About Fortifi Bank
Fortifi Bank has been Growin’ Wisconsin for more than 145 years – one person, one business, one relationship at a time. Financial centers can be found in Berlin, Green Lake, Green Bay, Montello, Ripon, Omro, Oshkosh, Waunakee, and Winneconne. Their full-service financial centers have been offering both personal and business clients with a portfolio of products and services that are designed with the client in mind. Local decision-making, community involvement, community ownership, and a Board of Directors comprised of local citizens have been the driving successes of Fortifi Bank since inception. For more information, visit www.fortifibank.com or call 855-876-1500.
