31 - From Printing to Packaging: Navigating the Future of Family Business
Building a Legacy of Innovation and Leadership: Insights from Kyle Tenney on Growing Up B2B
In the latest episode of Growing Up B2B, host Ed Delia sits down with Kyle Tenney, Executive Vice President of The Mid-York Press, a packaging manufacturer with a remarkable 200-year family history. Kyle shares invaluable insights on navigating leadership, legacy, and innovation in a family business, as well as adapting to changing labor markets, technological advancements, and sustainability in the packaging industry. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and family business leaders looking to blend tradition with growth.
Leadership, Legacy, and Innovation in Family Businesses
Kyle Tenney’s journey in the family business is rooted in a strong foundation of hands-on experience. Starting on the production floor instead of in the boardroom, Kyle learned firsthand about the operations and challenges of the business. This approach, according to Kyle, is essential for earning credibility as a leader, especially in family-run enterprises where skepticism can arise due to the family connection. Leading by example and actively engaging in all aspects of the business creates respect and fosters a culture of collaboration.
The conversation also delves into the significance of cultivating a positive company culture. Kyle emphasizes that fostering an environment where employees feel ownership and responsibility leads to better engagement, morale, and overall productivity. Encouraging idea sharing and showing genuine care for employees' well-being can go a long way in creating a loyal workforce. This positive culture becomes the bedrock for driving innovation and sustaining long-term growth in family businesses.
Another crucial topic discussed was the importance of adapting to labor market shifts. The current market demands flexibility, and Kyle shares practical insights on how businesses can engage and retain talent. Providing opportunities for advancement, offering competitive wages, and fostering a workplace that aligns with employees' values are key strategies for maintaining a motivated and dedicated workforce. In addition, Kyle stresses the importance of embracing sustainability and diversifying supply chains, particularly as consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions continues to grow.
About Kyle Tenney
Kyle Tenney is the Executive Vice President of The Mid-York Press, a family-owned business with nearly 200 years of expertise in packaging manufacturing. As a seventh-generation leader, Kyle is committed to driving innovation, maintaining the company’s legacy, and adapting to the evolving needs of the industry. His approach combines hands-on leadership, employee empowerment, and strategic adaptability.
About The Mid-York Press
The Mid-York Press is a family-owned business specializing in packaging manufacturing. With a long history of craftsmanship and innovation, the company is focused on producing high-quality packaging solutions while integrating sustainability and cutting-edge technologies. Mid-York Press is committed to preserving its legacy of excellence while embracing new opportunities for growth and modernization in the packaging industry.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Key Episode Highlights
Hands-on Leadership: Starting from the bottom helps build empathy and trust within the organization.
Building a Positive Culture: Empowering employees to take ownership and share ideas fosters engagement and innovation.
Adapting to Labor Market Shifts: Retaining talent is about more than compensation—focus on purpose, growth, and respect.
Sustainability and Supply Chain Diversification: Adopting eco-friendly materials and diversifying supply chains helps businesses stay competitive.
Embracing Technology: AI and automation are essential tools for future competitiveness, but human oversight remains critical.
Conclusion
The conversation between Ed Delia and Kyle Tenney offers a powerful blueprint for family business leaders navigating the intersection of legacy, leadership, and innovation. From building credibility through hands-on experience to embracing technology and sustainability, Kyle’s insights provide actionable steps for creating a resilient, future-proof organization. Family businesses that focus on positive culture, employee empowerment, and adaptability are best positioned for sustainable growth and long-term success.
Ready to take your family business to the next level? Visit Delia Associates to learn how we can help you create systems that drive growth and success.
Think you’d be a great fit for Growing Up B2B? Apply to be a guest and share your story with a business audience that values leadership, growth, and legacy. Apply here.
