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Who we are
OUR HISTORY
Steketee Van Huis (SVH) was established in Holland, Michigan in the early 1920s by the Steketee and Van Huis families. It was incorporated in 1928. A tradition of excellence and the strong work ethic of the Dutch community enabled the commercial printer to survive the depression of the 1940s and then prosper in the 1950s when the company moved to its current location.
In the 1960s, a second generation of family members assumed day-to-day responsibility for the company. Under the leadership of Cornelius Steketee and Donald Van Huis, the company assumed the name Holland Packaging and began producing folding cartons. The business thrived in this new market and soon became a highly respected supplier throughout the Midwest.
Recognizing the need for a small press division, the company purchased the Old News Printery in 1978. This small job shop, with a heritage dating back to 1879, flourished under the new management. Today this arm of the business is known as The Printery and continues to provide offset printing services in a separate facility.
With the retirement of Don and Cornie in the 1980s, the business was purchased by three long-term and trusted employees. Robert Kapenga assumed the role of president, Michael Elms was named vice president of production, and Dennis Brewer became vice president of sales.
Under the leadership of these men, the company entered the national market. State-of-the- art die cutting and folder/gluer equipment was added as well as high-end multicolor Heidelberg press. In the late 1980s, with electronic prepress emerging as a dominant force in the printing industry, the company lead the way again with its acquisition of large format equipment.
The Holland Packaging name was retired and the company continued as SVH Printing and Packaging. Understanding the value of industry specialization, the partners began to position the company as a leader in the pharmaceutical, educational, software, and high-end paperboard packaging and point of purchase materials. The two divisions grew to include over 125 employees working three shifts in facilities totaling over 70,000 square feet.
In the late 1990s, fourth generation printer Ted Etheridge and partner Bill Ockerlund assumed ownership of SVH. As president of the firm,Ted is involved in day-to-day operations along with the former management team. This highly experienced group has engineered a smooth transition, positioning SVH well for the 21st century and beyond. With a heritage of quality, dedicated craftsmen, and commitment to customers, SVH is building on its strengths while seeking new opportunities for continued growth.
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