The Cawley Company is a U.S.-based leader in the design, manufacturing, and delivery of high-quality identification and recognition products. Headquartered in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the company has established a solid reputation over more than 75 years for its ability to innovate and deliver custom, scalable, and brand-forward solutions across multiple industries.
Company Overview
Founded in 1946, The Cawley Company is a privately held business with deep roots in manufacturing excellence and customer-focused service. Now managed under the leadership of James Peterson, the company serves clients across North America and internationally, providing customized identification, signage, recognition, and branding products.
The company’s in-house capabilities include graphic design, printing, laser engraving, assembly, and distribution. With a strategic focus on personalization and rapid order turnaround, Cawley serves over 20,000 active clients, ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 corporations.
Product Portfolio
Cawley’s diverse offerings cover a wide range of identification and branding needs. The product lineup is known for quality craftsmanship, durable materials, and a professional finish, supporting sectors such as hospitality, corporate, healthcare, retail, food service, and education.
Key Product Categories:
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Name Badges
- Metal Name Badges
- Plastic Name Badges
- Wood Name Badges
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Lapel Pins
- Cloisonné
- Soft Enamel
- Die Struck
- Silk Screened
- Photo Process Pins
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Conference and Award Ribbons
-
Signage Solutions
- Indoor Signage
- Directional Signage
- Room Numbers and Name Plates
- Podium and Buffet Identification Signs
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Printing & Display Systems
- Overlay and Direct Print Systems
- Insert & Write-On Systems
- Laser/Inkjet & Cling Print Laser Systems
- Rotary Engraving Systems
- Badge Print Software
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Badge Accessories
- Lanyards
- Badge Reels
- Domes
- Add-ons and Fasteners
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Custom Products
- Buttons (Promotional, Event, Campaign)
- Menus for restaurants/events
- Plastic Cards (Loyalty, Gift, Key Tags, Access)
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Recognition Products
- Custom Awards
- Plaques and Certificates
Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
Cawley’s strength lies in its end-to-end control over design, manufacturing, and fulfillment, enabling unmatched customization and fast turnaround. The company differentiates itself by:
- Offering a complete ecosystem of ID solutions and accessories
- Producing sustainable and premium materials such as wood and recyclable plastics
- Proprietary badge systems that reduce reprinting and waste
- In-house digital badge software for efficient print and distribution
Their ability to fulfill orders ranging from single units to tens of thousands makes Cawley a flexible partner for organizations of all sizes.
Technology and Innovation
The Cawley Company has invested significantly in digital and laser technologies to automate badge production, streamline order workflows, and expand creative options. Their Cawley Badge Print Software integrates seamlessly with enterprise systems, allowing bulk customization while maintaining brand consistency.
Recent technological innovations include:
- Cling Print Laser Systems for reusable badge inserts
- Direct Print UV systems for high-resolution imagery
- Integration with food labeling systems for commercial kitchens and buffets
Market and Customer Base
Cawley serves a broad spectrum of industries, including:
- Hospitality (hotels, resorts, event venues)
- Healthcare (hospitals, clinics, senior living)
- Corporate (financial, legal, retail brands)
- Government and Education (schools, colleges, agencies)
- Trade Shows and Conferences
Clients include notable national restaurant chains, hotel groups, educational institutions, and multi-location retail brands. Repeat business accounts for over 70% of annual revenue.
Manufacturing and Capacity
Operating from a modern 85,000 sq. ft. facility in Wisconsin, Cawley maintains:
- High-capacity digital and rotary engraving machines
- Automated lanyard and badge reel assembly lines
- Warehouse and fulfillment operations for just-in-time delivery
The company maintains ISO-aligned quality protocols, ensuring consistent product standards and client satisfaction.
Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility
Cawley has adopted green initiatives across its operations:
- Use of recyclable substrates and packaging
- Digital workflows to reduce paper and chemical usage
- Energy-efficient manufacturing equipment
- Waste reduction programs in production
Recognition and Industry Standing
Cawley’s credibility is reflected in its long-standing relationships with thousands of clients and multiple industry accolades. Highlights include:
- Named among top U.S. custom ID badge manufacturers by industry analysts
- Preferred supplier to leading hotel and restaurant chains
- Over 75 years of continuous operation in American manufacturing
Customer Testimonials
Clients consistently rate Cawley highly for:
- Fast and accurate order fulfillment
- Excellent print quality and durability
- Helpful customer support
- Customization that meets corporate branding standards
Major Achievements
- Delivered over 15 million name badges and ID products in the past decade
- Developed private-label solutions for national food service and healthcare providers
- Expanded global reach with badge systems adopted in 10+ countries
- Published an industry-leading virtual product catalog and badge builder tools
The Cawley Company remains a leader in identification and recognition solutions by combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, making it the go-to partner for professional and branded ID systems worldwide.
