Hitek Announces Transition In Company Ownership
NAM Reports (CONT’D FROM PAGE 58)
tions appears to be keeping hiring decisions measured. Globally, manufacturing activity remained in expansion territory but lost some momentum. The global PMI eased to 51.3 in March from 51.8 in February, with both output and new orders continuing to grow, albeit at a slower pace. Extended lead times and relatively flat international trade volumes weighed on overall performance, contributing to a more cautious outlook. Despite the slowdown, the global reading remains one of the stronger results since mid-2022. However, forward-looking indicators point to increasing pressure. Business optimism declined to a five-month low, as supply chain disruptions, geopolitical uncertainty, and rising com- modity prices continue to shape expectations. Other indicators reinforce that same pattern. The S&P Global Manufacturing PMI rose to 52.3 in March from 51.6 in February, supported by stronger domestic new orders. Exports, however, continued to contract, as tariffs and higher costs weighed on foreign demand. Input and sell- ing prices both accelerated, with input costs rising at their fastest pace since August. Taken together, the data points to a manufacturing sec- tor that is still expanding and beginning to support em- ployment gains, but doing so under mounting cost pres- sure and an increasingly uncertain global backdrop.
Kenosha, Wisconsin based Hitek Equipment, a leader in automated tooling storage and corrugated converting equipment, has announced a major transition in company ownership. After decades of leadership and innovation, founders Tom and Kassie Wightman have officially sold the company to two dedicated team members, Ryan Ash- ley, a 14-year veteran of Hitek, and Brian Johnson, who has been with the company for three years.
Tom and Kassie Wightman founded Hitek Equipment with a vision to deliver dependable, customer-focused solutions, and the business has grown into a respected name in the industry. Their leadership has laid the founda- tion for a culture of integrity, technical expertise, and per- sonalized service. “After years of building this company from the ground up, we are incredibly proud to hand over the reins to two individuals who not only know the business inside and out but also share our core values,” said Tom Wightman. “Ryan and Brian are committed to preserving Hitek’s lega- cy while bringing new energy and ideas to the table.” Ryan Ashley, who has held multiple key roles over his 13-year tenure, brings deep institutional knowledge and a strong connection to the company’s customers and op- erations. Brian Johnson, with a background in sales and finance, brings a fresh perspective and strategic vision to the leadership team. “This company has been a second home for me for over a decade,” said Ryan Ashley. “It’s an honor to contin- ue the legacy that Tom and Kassie built and lead Hitek into its next chapter with Brian.” “Our focus moving forward will be on continuing excep- tional service, expanding capabilities, and staying at the forefront of industry trends,” added Brian Johnson. The transition will be seamless for customers, vendors, and partners. Hitek Equipment will continue to operate un- der the same name, with the same commitment to quality, innovation, and support. For more information, visit www.askhitek.com or con- tact Ryan Ashley, President, at (262) 842-1700 or info@ askhitek.com. Tom and Kassie Wightman have announced the sale of Hitek Equipment to Ryan Ashley, right, and Brian Johnson.
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April 13, 2026
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