News

The Gilman Brothers Company Welcomes Bethanie Saunders as Customer Service Manager
July 22, 2025
The Gilman Brothers Company is proud to announce the appointment of Bethanie Saunders as Customer Service Manager, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Customer service has long been the cornerstone of The Gilman Brothers Company’s success. In a bold and strategic move to further elevate customer relationships, the company has entrusted leadership of its inside sales team to Saunders. This appointment comes at a pivotal time, as Gilman Brothers continues to experience explosive growth across its core markets and emerging segments—momentum that has steadily accelerated over the past decade. In this key role, Saunders will serve as a vital liaison between sales and operations, ensuring seamless communication, goal alignment, and superior service delivery. Her leadership will be instrumental in scaling internal processes, enhancing customer engagement, and supporting the company’s continued trajectory of innovation and expansion.

Saunders brings over two decades of experience in customer service, sales, and process improvement. Most recently, she served as Printed Electronics Manager and Process Improvement Coordinator at Specialty Printing LLC, where she led R&D and production initiatives, managed cross-functional teams, and spearheaded sustainability efforts through SGP Certification. Her career also includes key roles at Jenoptik Optical Systems and United Lens, where she developed deep expertise in customer relations, production planning, and systems implementation.

“I’m thrilled to join The Gilman Brothers Company and lead a team so deeply committed to customer satisfaction,” said Saunders. “My goal is to foster a culture of proactive communication and continuous improvement, ensuring every customer interaction reflects the excellence and integrity this company is known for.”

The Gilman Brothers Company serves an increasingly diverse customer base through a robust product line of innovative foam board solutions tailored for the graphics, exhibit, wide format printing, and wall décor markets. With a reputation for quality, sustainability, and cutting-edge materials, Gilman Brothers continues to be a trusted partner for distributors and creatives across North America and beyond.

“Bethanie’s leadership, drive, and deep understanding of customer needs make her the ideal person to lead our inside sales team,” added Ari Luna, Enterprise Business Manager. “Her ability to foster collaboration between departments, combined with her passion for continuous improvement, will be instrumental in enhancing our customer service model and driving operational excellence.”


128-Year-Old Family-Owned Manufacturer The Gilman Brothers Company Leads with Innovation, Partnering with Budderfly to Cut Electricity Use by 50% Through Solar & Energy Efficiency
April 8, 2025
SHELTON, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Budderfly, a leading energy as a service company, and The Gilman Brothers Company, a 128-year-old, family-owned manufacturer of foamboard products based in Connecticut, today announced a $1.5 million solar project to drive substantial operational and environmental impact. Over the 15-year agreement, Budderfly expects to lower Gilman Brothers’ annual energy costs by up to 30% and cut carbon emissions from electricity consumption in half—equivalent to 9,000 metric tons, or removing nearly 2,100 gasoline-powered cars from the road.

A fixture of American manufacturing since 1897, The Gilman Brothers Company has a long history of resilience and innovation. The company, which provides signage, display, graphics, and wall art solutions to some of the nation’s largest retailers, has consistently taken a forward-looking innovative approach to energy. This dates back to the 1920s, when the river that powered the mill it relied on for power dried up. The company’s founder took matters into his own hands and pursued a charter to create the Bozrah Light and Power Company, a utility that has served Gilman Brothers’ facility and surrounding communities for decades.

Today, Gilman Brothers faces the challenge of moving away from fossil fuel dependency and outdated lighting to a more sustainable, cost-effective clean energy future. Budderfly’s $1.5 million investment is empowering this 120-employee, multi-generational family-run business to power its manufacturing operations with solar energy. Budderfly’s full-service model is enabling Gilman Brothers to implement high-efficiency upgrades, integrate renewable energy, and maintain its legacy of innovation—all while working toward ambitious net-zero goals.

“Today’s energy challenges are not the first ones our company has faced. Gilman Brothers has long understood the operational and financial benefits of having greater control over our energy supply as well as transparency into how we’re using it. We also know that managing it is a full-time business,” said Jeff Blanchard, Vice President of Operations with The Gilman Brothers Company. “Budderfly’s holistic approach and financial model is what independent manufacturers like Gilman Brothers want—and need. With Budderfly, we’re able to stay focused on our core mission to deliver our customers quality products while also trusting that our evolving energy needs are being met.”

Following this project, Gilman Brothers will benefit from a 750-kilowatt rooftop solar system, all-new LED lighting, and an ultra-high-efficiency HVAC system, in addition to several other cost-saving technologies like high-efficiency motors paired with variable frequency drives.

“Our partnership with Gilman Brothers is an exciting, first-of-its-kind for Budderfly in the industrial sector,” said Al Subbloie, Budderfly Founder and CEO. “Gilman Brothers has a unique legacy as an energy pioneer in Connecticut, with a keen understanding of the value of having greater control over its own energy supply. As Gilman’s energy needs continue to evolve, we’re thrilled to be able to help set the company up for another century of innovation and success, while helping Connecticut move closer to its goal of achieving 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040 through advanced energy efficiency technologies.”

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont praised the partnership, emphasizing its impact on both economic and environmental fronts.

“The Gilman Brothers Company has been operating its manufacturing business for more than a century in Connecticut, and I love that they’ve partnered with one of our state’s newest and most innovative companies, Budderfly, on this project that will not only help reduce their overhead costs but will also decrease their carbon emissions,” said Governor Lamont. “This is a great partnership and I am hopeful that in the coming years more Connecticut-based companies will connect with Budderfly to implement similar projects.”

Budderfly delivers energy-as-a-service solutions across nearly 7,000 customer sites nationwide.

About Budderfly

Budderfly, ranked as one of the fastest-growing Energy as a Service (EaaS) companies in the United States, is the premier sustainability partner for businesses and facilities. Budderfly installs, monitors, and manages a combination of patented technologies, equipment upgrades, and proprietary energy software for its customers at no out-of-pocket cost. Businesses benefit from lower energy bills, a reduced carbon footprint, more reliable operations, and an improved customer and employee experience. To date, Budderfly has helped customers avoid more than 200,000 metric tons of carbon emissions. Budderfly ranked on the Inc. 5000 America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies list from 2021 to 2024 and the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 list from 2023 to 2024. In 2025, Budderfly was named to Fast Company’s worldwide list of Most Innovative Companies, ranking 2nd for energy and 25th overall. For more information, visit budderfly.com or follow us on LinkedIn or X.

About The Gilman Brothers Company

Founded in 1897, The Gilman Brothers Company is a family-owned premier manufacturer of foamboard solutions for the signage, display, graphics, and wall art industries. With a legacy of innovation and a commitment to manufacturing premium products, the company has been a trusted partner for retailers and businesses nationwide for over a century. Headquartered in Gilman, Connecticut, the company continues to push the boundaries of foam board innovation and manufacturing excellence.


Gilman Brothers Announces New Hybrid Role for Hannah Coon, Advancing Growth in the Graphics and Wall Décor Market
July 14, 2025
The Gilman Brothers Company is proud to announce an exciting new hybrid role for Hannah Coon, Graphics and Wall Décor Specialist, as the company continues to grow its presence in the graphics and wall décor space. Known for her passion, energy, and customer-first mindset, Hannah will play a pivotal role in advancing Gilman Brothers’ position in the wall décor market.

In this newly defined role, Hannah will focus on developing relationships with fabricators and brands as Gilman Brothers continues to shape the future of the wall décor segment. She recently played a key role in launching Gilman’s innovative Resilient Adhere and spotlighted the acclaimed Resilient Align at the B&H Bild Expo. Resilient Align, a velvety-soft, closed-cell foam mounting board featuring a unique slidable, pressure-activated adhesive surface, is gaining momentum in the photography and wall art industries.

“Hannah’s strategic mindset and collaborative approach align perfectly with our vision for the wall décor market,” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager. “I am beyond excited about the inevitable growth we will achieve together as we continue to expand the Resilient and Adhere product lines into new markets.”

“I’m eager to begin this new chapter and spend more time engaging directly with the graphics and wall décor community,” says Hannah Coon. “I look forward to cultivating strong, lasting relationships while ensuring our customers receive dependable service and innovative solutions.”

Customer service remains the cornerstone of Gilman Brothers’ success. Hannah’s expanding responsibilities underscore the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional value and building long-term partnerships. She brings a strong background in strategic customer engagement and product training, where these skills will continue to strengthen the company’s growth in the graphics and wall décor space.


Gilman Brothers Expands Inventory and Announces HP Latex R530 Printer Certification
May 22, 2025
Long Beach, CA – May 2025 — The Gilman Brothers Company made a powerful first impression as a partnering exhibitor at Dscoop 2025, held in Long Beach, California. The event brought together global leaders in digital print, packaging, and display graphics—and Gilman Brothers stood out with innovation, energy, and a commitment to sustainable solutions. In recognition of the value and opportunities presented by Dscoop, the company is excited to announce their commitment to a new annual membership. “We look forward to deepening our engagement with the Dscoop community and contributing meaningfully in the years ahead. This was our first time at Dscoop, and the experience was nothing short of incredible,” said Mike Barrett, Business Development Leader – Western Region at The Gilman Brothers Company. “The creativity and collaboration on the show floor were inspiring. We had the chance to connect with some of the brightest minds in the industry and showcase what makes Gilman Brothers truly unique.”

Booth Highlights:

  • Adhere Tabs Steal the Show: Gilman’s new Adhere Tabs hanging system drew significant attention for its strength and simplicity. Attendees repeatedly described the product as “magic,” impressed by how much more durable and user-friendly it was compared to traditional hanging systems.
  • INFINITY® Canvas Textured Foam Board: The booth featured vibrant, high-impact prints on Gilman’s sustainable INFINITY® Canvas Textured Foam Board. These samples, ideal for retail, gallery, and POP applications, were produced in collaboration with HP using the HP Latex R Series.
  • HP Indigo Collaboration: The event prompted engaging discussions around the capabilities of the HP Indigo 200K digital press. Its exceptional photo quality sparked ideas for pairing Indigo-printed visuals with Gilman’s adhesive-backed boards to produce high quality wall decor prints as well as POP and POS signage. Plans are currently in motion for an innovation summit at HP Indigo’s headquarters to explore these collaborative opportunities further.
  • Certified HP Gilman Materials: Gilman proudly showcased its certified materials—INFINITY®, INSITE®, RESILIENT®, and EAGLECELL®—in support of HP’s R530 product launch, reinforcing the company’s alignment with cutting-edge print technology.
  • Customer Connections: The booth attracted both existing customers and new prospects. Many visitors were introduced to the advantages of Gilman Brothers’ products over competitors, and the company anticipates welcoming several new customers as a result of the event.

Looking ahead, Gilman Brothers is planning customer events with HP’s wide format and industrial segments in Alpharetta, further strengthening its commitment to innovation and partnership.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Dscoop community for the warm welcome,” said Barrett. “We’re already looking forward to next year.”


Gilman Brothers Expands Inventory and Announces HP Latex R530 Printer Certification
April 23, 2025
Gilman Brothers proudly announces that the following products are now officially certified on the HP Latex R530 Printer: INFINITY®, InSite®, Resilient®, and EagleCell™. These materials have been rigorously tested and proven to deliver outstanding print quality, performance, and compatibility with Hewlett Packard’s newest printer, empowering creativity with unmatched consistency and sustainability.

Gilman Brothers is excited to announce a significant increase in inventory levels to support the rising demand for Hewlett Packard’s R-series of latex printers, including the HP Latex R530 Printer. As a certified media provider, Gilman Brothers offers a range of high-quality products which can be found under Gilman Brothers via the media guide on the Hewlett Packard website.

New Membership and Event Participation

Gilman Brothers is proud to announce its new membership with Dscoop and participation in the upcoming Edge event in Long Beach. At this event, Gilman Brothers will showcase all its media products and new innovations, while continuing to support Hewlett Packard’s initiatives.

Recent Collaborative Initiatives and Strategic Discussions

A recent personalized tour and training session at Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) in Alpharetta, GA was a tremendous success. The event featured strategic discussions and partnership meetings between HPE’s leadership team and Gilman Brothers’ commercial leadership, providing valuable insights and skills to enhance their collaboration with Hewlett Packard. This initiative has strengthened the partnership, enabling both companies to better serve their clients with innovative solutions and strategic initiatives.

Ari Luna, Enterprise Business Manager at Gilman Brothers, stated, “Our partnership with Hewlett Packard allows us to better serve our enterprise clients with cutting-edge solutions. We are committed to leveraging this collaboration to deliver exceptional value and innovative products that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

“More announcements are coming in conjunction with Hewlett Packard. Our aggressive commercial strategy includes OEMs from around the globe,” adds Bill Vanhorn, Vice President Commercial at Gilman Brothers. “Hewlett Packard has been an amazing partner, helping us focus on long-term strategic initiatives.”

Gilman Brothers remains committed to delivering exceptional products and services and looks forward to continuing its successful collaboration with Hewlett Packard.


The Gilman Brothers Company Announces Strengthened Partnership with Kelly Spicers
March 13, 2025
Gilman Brothers is thrilled to announce the continued and expanding partnership with Kelly Spicers. Recently, Kelly Spicers celebrated their 90-Year Anniversary with an exciting three-day event in California. Attended by Bill VanHorn, VP of Commercial, and Mike Barrett, Business Development Leader, the event highlighted the companies’ mutual commitment to growth and innovation in the wide format sector.

Kelly Spicers’ robust infrastructure, which includes 1.7 million square feet of space, 125 delivery trucks, 25 stores, and 11 locations, positions them perfectly to distribute Gilman Brothers’ products efficiently, offering same or next-day delivery to any customer.

Bill VanHorn expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Refreshing to share mutual strategies and ideas to expand the market with all levels of their organization reflects the relationship and excitement of both companies.”

Terri Wensley, Vice President Wide Format Sales at Kelly Spicers added, “Gilman Brothers has been a solid, trusted partner with the best materials in the industry, innovation with new products, as well as unparalleled support.”

Mike Barrett concluded, “Incredible experience this week. The path to growth via wide format is clear. They have been and continue to be a partner helping grow the western region.”

Gilman Brothers’ decades-long partnership with Kelly Spicers, a division of Central National Gottesman (CNG), continues to thrive, showcasing both companies’ shared vision and dedication to leading the market in wide format solutions.


Giman Brothers Welcomes Cate Cannavino
May 13, 2024
The Gilman Brothers Company, a premier manufacturer of foamboard products for signage, display, and graphics, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Cate Cannavino as Segment Leader for Wall Décor and Emerging Markets. Cate brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this pivotal role.

“We are thrilled to welcome Cate Cannavino to our team,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales at Gilman Brothers. “Her expertise and vision will undoubtedly elevate our Wall Décor and Emerging Markets segment.”

Cate Cannavino is a dynamic marketing and business development professional with a proven track record of envisioning and executing growth initiatives using multi-channel strategies for both local and global brands. As a thoughtful visionary, she excels in amplifying and framing brand voice, developing and launching new products, engineering growth strategies, and delivering engaging experiences across all sales channels, resulting in scalable outcomes.

As Segment Leader for Wall Décor and Emerging Markets for Gilman Brothers, Cate Cannavino will play a crucial role in driving growth and market penetration within the wall décor industry. Cate’s initial focus will be on Gilman Brothers’ recently launched Resilient® Align™. Resilient® Align™ is a velvety soft, closed cell foam mounting board with a unique slidable non-tack, pressure-activated adhesive surface that is already turning heads in the photography and wall art industry.

“Cate’s strategic mindset and collaborative approach align perfectly with our company’s vision for the wall decor segment,” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager at Gilman Brothers. “I am beyond excited about the inevitable growth we will achieve as we work together to build the Resilient® product line into new markets.


Specialized InSite® Reveal® Approved Globally for HP PageWide Platform

April 9, 2024
The Gilman Brothers Company, North America’s premier manufacturer of foamboard products, has announced that a specialized version of InSite® Reveal® has been globally approved for the HP PageWide XL Pro Printer series.

This partnership underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and R&D. HP will be branding Gilman’s specialized version of InSite® Reveal® as “HP Production Foamplus Board” and launching it at HP’s Booth #1700 during the International Sign Expo in Orlando, Florida, taking place from April 10-12.

“To be the globally preferred foamboard supplier for HP’s PageWide platform is a testament to why we work closely with OEM’s, creating specifications around what others could not provide,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “Very proud of Team Gilman and excited for further launches with HP.”

InSite® Reveal® is manufactured at Gilman’s HQ campus in Gilman, Connecticut. This approval marks a significant milestone for both Gilman Brothers and HP, demonstrating the potential for future collaborative efforts in the printing
industry.

HP PageWide is a revolutionary platform introduced by HP Inc., a leader in digital production printing solutions. Unlike traditional printers, HP PageWide printheads are stationary, allowing the paper to pass under the page-wide, immovable printhead at an incredible speed, while thousands of tiny ink nozzles apply the HP Thermal InkJet color. This technology offers a new solution for print service providers to drive profitable growth with quality, productivity, and versatility.


Gilman Brothers Announces Highly Anticipated Launch of Resilient® ALIGN®

January 10, 2024
The Gilman Brothers Company is proud to announce the highly anticipated launch of its latest and most innovative product yet, Resilient® ALIGN® Permanent Non-Tack PSA Mounting Board.

Resilient® ALIGN® is a revolutionary, velvety soft, closed cell mounting foam board that is designed with a unique slidable non-tack, pressure-activated adhesive surface that makes mounting in seconds now a reality. The adhesive surface is also equipped with Air-Release Technology that eliminates air entrapment, ensuring a smooth and bubble-free finish every time.

“As we continue to build the Resilient® line, we are ecstatic to present this one-of-a-kind product to the industry,” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager, who has been involved in every detail from product development to product launch. “The features and benefits of this product line are so remarkable, and the name “Resilient® fully embodies the essence of who we are as a company. I am truly proud to introduce Resilient® ALIGN® to our customers.”

The closed cell construction of Resilient® ALIGN® provides the smoothest surface for mounting and the velvet true black core gives it a visually pleasing edge that is ready to display with no further treatment. Spring-Back technology makes it dent-resistant, eliminating damage during shipping and handling. The Resilient® product family offers print and standard mount versions, as well as custom surfaces like canvas and brushed aluminum. Application possibilities are endless — ranging from wall décor, 3-D signage, and high-end packaging.

“Innovation and technology continue to drive our long-term strategic growth plan,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “This platform is only the beginning as we approach nontraditional markets with Resilient®.”

Gilman Brothers will be introducing Resilient® ALIGN® as part of their upcoming Innovation Summit regional event series, beginning at the Zund America Demo Center in Irvine, California, January 23-24, as well as at Imaging USA, January 28-30, and the West Coast Art & Frame Show, February 4-7.


Gilman Brothers Innovation Summit 2024 Series Will Begin at Zund America

January 9, 2024
The Gilman Brothers Company, a leading manufacturer of innovative foam board products for signage, display, and graphics applications, announced today the launch of its Innovation Summit Series, a series of exclusive events that will showcase the latest innovations and solutions from Gilman Brothers and strategic partners.

The Innovation Summit Series is a result of Gilman Brothers’ commitment to bringing innovation directly to the customer, and providing them with the most versatile products, services, and fresh ideas to grow their businesses. The series will feature 10 events in six months, hosted at different regional venues across the country. Each event will be hosted by Gilman Brothers and several key partners, such as Zund America, a leading manufacturer of digital cutting systems. The events will also involve collaboration with other manufacturers and OEMs from cutting to printing equipment, such as Plaskolite, a leading supplier of acrylic sheet and resin products.

The first Innovation Summit in California will offer attendees the opportunity to see new patent pending materials from Gilman Brothers and Plaskolite, as well as witness live demonstrations on Zund’s state-of-the-art digital cutters. They will also discover cutting-edge products and technologies, and network with industry peers and experts.

“Our commercial team has had tremendous success with past road shows and Innovation Summit events across the Midwest and at our headquarters.” said Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “These events offer interactive and immersive experiences with technology, as well as unique networking opportunities that are not possible at the bigger trade shows. It’s a tremendous investment to coordinate such an aggressive schedule. When you have retailers, printers, fabricators, OEM’s and distributors together—that’s when creativity happens. Very excited for 2024.”

The first open house styled event will be held in Irvine, California, on January 23-24, 2024, from 10 am to 3 pm. The event will be hosted by Gilman Brothers and Zund America at the Zund America Demo Center, located at 15231 Alton Parkway, Suite 120, Irvine, CA 92618. The event is by invitation only, and attendees must RSVP by January 18, 2024.


Gilman Brothers Welcomes Mike Barrett as Business Development Leader for Central Region

October 2, 2023
The Gilman Brothers Company is proud to announce the addition of Mike Barrett as Business Development Leader for its Central Region.

Mike comes to Gilman Brothers from Millcraft and brings with him a strong background in wide format media and sales management as well as 35 years of experience in the graphics industry.

“Mike is a great addition to our growing Commercial team,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “The aggressive growth strategy was shared with Mike during the interview process and needless to say, he’s all in and beyond excited to travel the territory and make the commercial vision a reality.”

Mike has a keen understanding of market conditions and an ability to analyze internal and external data to evaluate product and competitive performance and provide data-based insights into industry trends, customer strategy and consumer/end-user requirements. Mike joins the company equipped with an extensive knowledge of the Gilman Brothers product line from an end user’s perspective and is eager to educate and inspire customers to identify opportunities and exceed growth expectations.

“It’s been a wild ride for everyone over the last few years,” continues Bill VanHorn. “Our mission is simple, people over products – that’s where Mike comes in. The growth will come with all of us working as one team.” Bring on 2024 and beyond! More announcements coming – stay tuned.”

As Business Development Leader for Gilman Brothers Central Region, Mike Barrett will work closely with distributors, printers, and end users to build relationships, raise market awareness, and identify opportunities for business growth. Mike is based in Columbus, Ohio and will focus on developing and creating new business partnerships throughout central Canada, down to Texas and the Gulf Coast.


Gilman Brothers New Resilient® Soft Touch Foam is an Industry Game Changer

January 4, 2023
The Gilman Brothers Company’s revolutionary new Resilient® Soft Touch Foam is meeting rave reviews among industry leaders and brand owners. The patent-pending material, named for its unique compressive and tension rebound properties, has quickly become the fastest-growing product segment in the company’s 125-year history.

Resilient® is a velvety soft, fine-cell foam board that recovers quickly after compression and features a true-black finished edge that requires no banding. The lightweight, ultra-smooth, semi-rigid board is capable of providing the highest-quality display appearance compared to traditional foam boards. Resilient® is available in both print and mount versions and can be customized with a variety of accessory surface treatments, making it a versatile option for brands and fabricators. Because it is lightweight and requires no costly hanging systems, it is a perfect choice for creating 3D signage like large block letters and dimensional indoor wall decor.

“Resilient®’s features provide flawless execution while providing cost-saving solutions,” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager, “There is absolutely nothing else like it in our industry.” The rapid surge of excitement for Resilient® has prompted the company to add to its commercial and production resources to meet growing demand. Gilman Brothers will be kicking the new year off with a series of exciting promotional videos and product training materials aimed to educate, innovate, and inspire. Gilman Brothers has also recently acquired a 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse facility to support market growth.

Resilient® has also quickly caught the attention of the ever-growing photo square and wall art markets. Continuing to focus strongly on the framing, photography, and art industries, Gilman Brothers will be exhibiting Resilient®’s versatility at Imaging USA in Nashville, January 22-24 (Booth 379) and has recently renewed its membership with Namta®, the association of the art/creative materials industry.


The Gilman Brothers Company Reasserts Its Commitment to Provide Value-Added Products to the Framing Market

December 19, 2022
The Gilman Brothers Company, a long-established leader in the framing, photography, and art industry will be focusing strongly on its commitment to providing value-added products and services heading into the new year.

“Gilman Brothers has been and continues to be the product line of choice in the framing, photography, and art industry,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “We’ve earned that reputation by listening to the market and delivering a highperforming product family year after year. That business model has not changed in 125 years and will continue to be our standard through 2023 and beyond.” With an eye toward an increasing market share in the rapidly expanding framing industry, the company has recently acquired a 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse facility to support market growth.

The Gilman Brothers Company offers a robust lineup of high-quality foam board products engineered specifically for the mounting and framing industry. Gilman Brothers’ InSite® Reveal® Clay-Coated Foam Board is available in Heat-Activated, Self-Adhesive, and Acid-Free options. MountCor® 130°F Permanent HA Foamboard offers the lowest bonding temperature of any heat-activated board available and features a translucent, gridded release liner to make positioning images easier than ever and eliminate the need for a release board.

Gilman Brothers’ newest addition to its framing, photography, and art industry product line is its recently launched, patent-pending Resilient® Soft Touch Foam. Resilient® is a game-changing, velvety soft, fine-cell foam board that recovers quickly after compression and features a true-black finished edge that requires no banding. Resilient®’s ultra-smooth surface quality makes it the perfect option for displaying studio-quality photo finishes.

Gilman Brothers will be at Imaging USA in Nashville, January 22-24 (Booth 379) to showcase its complete line of framing options for the photo industry, with a spotlight on new Resilient® Soft Touch Foam. Gilman Brothers has recently renewed its membership with Namta®, the association of the art/creative materials industry.


The Gilman Brothers Company Supports Print and Graphics Sustainability Efforts as the Newest Patron of the SGP

December 6, 2022
The Gilman Brothers Company announces its support of the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP) in its mission as a leading certification authority in sustainable printing. As a GOLD SGP Patron, The Gilman Brothers Company – one of North America’s premier manufacturers of foamboard products for signage, display, graphics, and wall art – joins a growing list of patrons, SGP certified facilities, brands, academic institutions, NGOs and associations dedicated to improving the sustainability of graphic communications.

SGP’s industry-focused approach to greener best practices is very much in-line with The Gilman Brothers Company’s dedication to greener print manufacturing processes.

“At The Gilman Brothers Company, we are committed to preserving our environment and protecting the planet,” says Jeff Blanchard, Director of Operations of The Gilman Brothers Company. “Our operations and business practices are grounded in sustainability principles as we strive to eliminate waste and recycle everywhere possible.”

Today’s environmentally conscious consumers demand eco-friendly options from their favorite brands, considering not only the products themselves but how they are packaged and displayed as well. The Gilman Brothers Company supports print and graphics sustainability efforts with greener options like INFINITY® 100% recyclable styrene-faced foamboard, an alternative to expanded PVC, and EAGLECELL™, an all-paper honeycomb graphics board with 100% fully recyclable paper core and surface papers that is compatible with any recycle program.

“Brand owners are increasingly looking for sustainable products that enhance the customer experience,” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager. “We continuously strive to provide exceptional product offerings while reducing the environmental impact.

We are proud to be a part of the SGP community of sustainable print suppliers,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “We are pleased to offer a lineup of high-performance products that are environmentally friendly as well.”

To learn more about how to become an SGP Patron and join the future of the sustainable circular supply chain, visit http://www.sgppartnership.org/patrons/.


Gilman Brothers Rocks the House at PRINTING United Expo 2022

October 27, 2022
The Gilman Brothers Company rocked the house at the PRINTING United Expo in Las Vegas with a showstopping rock-and-roll stage booth produced entirely from their substrate product line. Gilman Brothers collaborated with Zünd America, Inc. to showcase in one location the possibilities when the right materials, software, and equipment are combined and executed from prepress to printing and finishing.

The Gilman Brothers Company portion of the Zünd America, Inc. booth featured a performance stage, electric guitars, amplifiers, drums, and giant guitar picks, all made entirely from the Gilman Brothers product line. Components of the rock stage display were fabricated from Resilient® Soft Touch Graphic Board, INFINITY® Styrene Faced Foamboard, and EAGLECELL™ All Paper Graphics Board. Zünd, a leading manufacturer of multifunctional digital cutting/routing systems, provided a dedicated cutting table to give show attendees a unique opportunity to watch firsthand the superior cuttability of Resilient® and INFINITY®.

The 10’x30’ rock-and-roll themed booth was designed, printed, cut, and assembled by T3 Expo, headquartered in Lakeville, Massachusetts. T3 Expo’s team of Eventgineers created and produced the dynamic visual effect, capturing the graphic details of the rock-and-roll theme while spotlighting the printing and cutting superiority of Gilman Brothers substrates. “The elite team at T3 worked seamlessly with us to execute this realistic display,” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager. “Their ability to capture our vision and bring it to life was invaluable.”

Durst Image Technology of Cleveland, Ohio, “live” printed multiple images on Resilient® Soft Touch Foam and INFINITY® Styrene Faced Foamboard, demonstrating the superior printing surface of Gilman Brothers boards. Selfie frames and colorful samples provided booth visitors with a fun-filled takeaway.

“Energy was high at our booth as Team Gilman engaged with key industry partners!” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “A sold-out customer event along with three days of insane booth traffic makes PRINTING United 2022 a historic success! We LOVE this industry!!”

The Gilman Brothers Company and Zünd America, Inc. also joined forces to host an exciting, invitation-only, rock concert event. The fun-filled venue provided an informal setting for industry partners to network outside the walls of the traditional tradeshow format.


The Gilman Brothers Company Welcomes Susan Acevedo as New Strategic Sales Leader

October 27, 2022
The Gilman Brothers Company is pleased to announce the addition of Susan Acevedo as Strategic Sales Leader. Susan will round out the commercial team at the company’s Gilman, CT headquarters.

Susan will be responsible for maintaining and expanding relationships with strategic customers while achieving sales quota and assigned account objectives. Susan’s primary focus will be to work closely with channel partners to ensure each order is handled efficiently, from quote to delivery.

Susan comes to The Gilman Brothers Company with a diverse customer service background. She brings with her exceptional communication and analytical skills, and a passion for customer satisfaction.

“I am looking forward to working with the Gilman team for many years to come and building lasting relationships with our customers, “says Susan Acevedo. “I am eager to continue to learn more about our industry.” Exceeding customer expectations continues to be the driving force at Gilman Brothers as all team members strive to build a fully supportive and productive relationship with every channel partner.

“We are excited to welcome Susan to Gilman Brothers,” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager. “Susan’s vibrant personality, passion for learning and fierce can-do attitude are just what we’ve been looking for in our commercial team.”

Susan enjoys gourmet cooking, raising chickens, karaoke, hiking and spending time with her pups.


The Gilman Brothers Company Launches New Resilient® Soft Touch Foam

June 15, 2022
The Gilman Brothers Company is excited to announce the launch of Resilient® Soft Touch Foam. Resilient® is a velvety soft, fine cell foam board that recovers quickly after compression and features a unique true-black edge that is visually pleasing with no need for edge banding. Application possibilities range from block letters and custom packaging to retail displays, graphic signage and wall décor.

The Resilient® product line is available with a consistent white surface that provides a smooth, glass-like surface for direct digital printing applications and with one-side pressure-sensitive adhesive for mounting applications. Resilient® is made with “spring-back technology” which enables it to recover quickly after compression and dent-resistant corners that eliminate any damage in shipping. Resilient® is very lightweight, making it a versatile option for wall décor applications like dimensional block letters and photo tiles.

An exclusive video conference introducing Resilient® recently drew the interest of hundreds across multiple markets. The Gilman Brothers business development team has begun scheduling on-site consultations along with more video presentations and will have direct involvement with all quotes and sample requests. A new promotional video and detailed commercial packet can be viewed at gilmanbrothers.com/resilient.

“Resilient is a game changer based on key characteristics such as recovery, clean edge, lighter weight, printability and ability to mount, not to mention the ease with cutting the material,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “This is the fastest-growing segment in our company history.”

“The passion we’ve seen from retailers and fabricators over the many creative applications for Resilient, not to mention the safety aspect, has been amazing,” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager. “I have been here for over 15 years and have never been more excited about a new product.”

The launch of Resilient® is strategically timed with The Gilman Brothers Company’s recent purchase of a Zund G3-2500 digital cutter. With this purchase, the company will be able to provide value-added services to customers via prototypes, design, and cut files.

The Resilient® product page on Gilman Brothers website features application photos, cutting guidelines, and more. Patent-pending Resilient® is made in the USA and is available in gauges ranging from 1/2″, 3/4” and 1″ thicknesses and is currently available in 50” x 87” sheets. Resilient® cuts easily and cleanly with most commercial cutting equipment. Cutting guidelines can be downloaded from the Gilman Brothers website.


The Gilman Brothers Launches New Resilient® Soft Touch Graphics Board

February 15, 2022
The Gilman Brothers Company is proud to announce the launch of Resilient® Soft Touch Graphics Board. Resilient® is a velvety soft, fine cell foam board that recovers quickly after compression and features a velvety true-black edge that is visually pleasing and ready to display without any further treatment.

The Resilient® product line is available with a consistent white surface that provides a smooth, glass-like surface for direct digital printing applications and with one-side pressure-sensitive adhesive for mounting applications. Resilient® is made with “spring-back technology” which enables it to recover quickly after compression and dent-resistant corners that eliminate any damage in shipping.

“We love Resilient®!” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager, alluding to the February 14 product launch that kicked off with a new promotional video and detailed commercial packet, along with an exciting new application sample kit. “Feedback from current and new targeted clients is beyond exciting. This product is a disrupter in multiple markets, and I look forward to driving this platform.”

Gilman Brothers business development team has begun scheduling on-site consultations and video presentations to introduce Resilient® to multiple markets. “This is the fastest-growing segment in our company history,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “We are humbled to be well-positioned for new pathways to growth.”

The launch of Resilient® is strategically timed with The Gilman Brothers Company’s recent purchase of a Zund G3-2500 digital cutter. With this purchase, the company will be able to provide value-added services to customers via prototypes, design, and cut files.

The Resilient® product page on Gilman Brothers website features application photos, cutting guidelines, and more. Patent-pending Resilient® is made in the USA and is available in gauges ranging from 1/2″, 3/4” and 1″ thicknesses and is currently available in 51” x 86” sheets. Resilient® cuts easily and cleanly with most commercial razor knives. Cutting guidelines can be downloaded from the Gilman Brothers website.


The Gilman Brothers Purchases Zund G3-2500 Digital Cutter

January 17, 2022
The Gilman Brothers Company, one of North America’s premier manufacturers of foamboard products for signage, display and graphics, has purchased a Zund G3-2500 Cutter as part of the company’s latest manufacturing and technological improvements at their Gilman, Connecticut headquarters.

The G3 Zund digital cutter positions The Gilman Brothers Company for the development of several upcoming product launches and will add greater opportunity for product testing and prototyping of new materials and technologies. Printers and end-users will benefit from a faster turnaround of design concepts provided through the company’s in-house “imagineto-reality” nontraditional global market support.

“Having a Zund at our HQ allows for immediate response to customer needs such as prototyping, design, performance testing and unlimited flexibility working with designers around the globe,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales at Gilman Brothers.

Gilman Brothers chose the Zund G3-2500 digital cutter for its versatility and superior cutting performance. Gilman Brothers INFINITY® Styrene Faced Foamboard high end foam cuts cleaner and 30% faster on digital cutting equipment like Zund®. The company features detailed cutting guidelines for its full product line on their website for all popular cutting equipment brands.

Gilman Brothers enjoys a longstanding partnership with Zund America, Inc. The two companies have teamed up on multiple occasions to demonstrate the digital cutter’s superior performance on Gilman Brothers INFINITY® Styrene Faced Foamboard. Plans are in place for an on-site event to be held at Zund’s Irvine, California this coming June.

The Zund G3-2500 Cutter is a high-performance, digital flatbed cutter designed for industrial use and built for high-volume, 24/7 production. For more information on Zund digital cutters, visit https://www.zund.com/en.


Gilman Brothers and Zünd Take to the Road with “Unplugged” N. American Road Tour

MARCH 25, 2021
The Gilman Brothers Company is once again reinventing the way business is done by taking their innovative foamboard, unique plastics, corrugate line of products and 24/7 services on the road this spring with an unprecedented, 13-stop, four month “Un-Plugged N. American Tour” which will cover over 12,000 miles and culminate in over 100 hours of customer engagement.

In a bold move to network with industry partners outside the walls of the traditional trade show format, the company will be setting up in the parking lots of Marriott hotels, with a weather contingency plan to move the show indoors to a large conference room. The tour stops, which will also feature digital cutting innovation from Zünd’s Swiss cutting systems, kick off the week of April 12th in Bloomington, MN, and also cover Milwaukee, WI (held at Zünd America’s headquarters), and Chicago, IL, during the same week. The tour will then continue for the next several months across North America.

“Team Gilman is hungry to get out and drive the message via in-person meetings. People are ready to meet, get away from the computer screen, network, discuss new growth opportunities and re-connect,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “This massive initiative will have its challenges and require a tremendous amount of coordination, yet that is where we thrive. Our mindset is to keep it simple, take the message to the streets, follow CDC guidelines, and while we’re at it, have some fun. We have a few surprises planned along the way, so follow social media as we hit the road and drive value to all attending.”

The Zünd demonstrations will give attendees an opportunity to discover and discuss the latest Zünd digital cutting solutions and how easily they can be adapted to manufacturers’ specific cutting and automated production needs.

“When we heard about the tour Gilman was putting together, we wanted to be part of this unique initiative,” says Chris Nicholson, Customer Experience Director at Zünd America, Inc. “It’s a great way for us to engage and network with core as well as new customers and contribute to the overall theme of growth via innovation.”.

“We are fortunate to be involved with such a diverse group of industries and markets,” says VanHorn. “Companies attending will range from various government agencies, retailers, fabricators, and printers to health care, school districts and various distribution channels.”

Admission to the event is free, however visitors are asked to RSVP to ensure social distancing and local CDC guidelines are followed for the safety of all participants. Registration links to the RSVP-only events can be found at gilmanbrothers.com.

Zünd is an independent, family-owned company whose modular cutting systems are highly sought-after solutions for processing a wide variety of materials. For additional information about Zünd, visit the company’s website at http://www.zund.com, email infous@zund.com, or call 414-433-0700.


The Gilman Brothers Company Introduces Portable Vaccine Administration Station

JANUARY 26, 2021
The Gilman Brothers Company is once again responding with innovative and creative solutions in the battle against the global COVID-19 crisis. Latest in the company’s line up of essential products is a portable vaccine station constructed from Gilman’s INFINITY® UV resistant styrene faced foamboard.

The modular stations feature a moisture resistant, sanitizable surface which can be printed with specialized graphics or company branding. The interlocking system, which can be customized to size, allows for multiple units to be connected and set up in rows. All components are lightweight and can be shipped flat and assembled in the field without tools, to quickly and easily convert any space into a vaccination administration site.

“Simple solution for a complex problem,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “We will continue engaging with all levels of the supply chain, driving innovation as our medical initiatives are rapidly expanding.”


The Gilman Brothers Company Responds to USACE Need for Vaccine Transport System

NOVEMBER 12, 2020
The Gilman Brothers Company is once again responding with innovative and creative solutions in the battle against the global COVID-19 crisis. Latest in the company’s line up of essential products is a portable vaccine station constructed from Gilman’s INFINITY® UV resistant styrene faced foamboard.

The Vaccine Transport System will provide safe and easy transport and retrieval of vaccine payload, maintaining a temperature of -75°C for over 72 hours without replenishing dry ice. The outer layer of the system is moisture resistant and sanitizable. All components are lightweight and can be shipped flat and assembled in the field without tools.

The Vaccine Transport System is a collaborative effort made possible by the teamwork of Gilman Brothers R&D, vendors, and raw material suppliers, with direct interaction with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “Doing our part has always been in our company’s heritage.” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager. “Having the support of the USACE is both proud and humbling.”

“We are not just a foamboard manufacturer. We are innovators, creators, thinkers, and problem solvers,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “Providing hope and being part of the solution to save lives during these unprecedented times will go down as one of the major accomplishments for all involved.”


The Gilman Brothers Company Redefines the New Norm of Customer Interaction

NOVEMBER 5, 2020
In the early weeks of the COVID-19 health crisis, The Gilman Brothers Company commercial team quickly identified strategies to stay connected with channel partners in a rapidly changing market. The Business Development Team, who normally maintain a rigorous travel schedule, shifted easily to home office/studios equipped with design prototypes and samples. Through weekly targeted video conferences, the team has hosted discussions with not only channel partners and fabricators, but also key decision makers from educational systems and the military. Since March of this year, the team has participated in over 300 video conferences.

In an era when the entire industry has pivoted to utilizing technology for all aspects of the marketing process, the Gilman Brothers commercial team puts a fresh spin on their approach to video encounters. Cognizant of their customers’ need for relief from video fatigue, they offer fun, upbeat training sessions and role-playing sales calls, along with guest speakers and customer testimonials.

With the lifting of travel restrictions over the past three months, the commercial team is once again on the move, meeting in person with key customers. “We are available to visit, and follow all CDC guidelines,” assures Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. The company also routinely rotates employees to work offsite in readiness for pending weather conditions and other unforeseen challenges. “How we connect with our channel partners may look different these days, but superior customer service, meeting and exceeding their expectations, remains our primary focus,” says Bill VanHorn, Director of Sales. “As the printing and fabricating market continues to evolve, we will be here to evolve with it.”

At the Gilman, CT headquarters, a Virtual Customer Experience Center has been implemented for training, consulting, role playing and brainstorming with all levels of the supply chain including suppliers, fabricators, end-users, OEM’s and distribution. Design prototypes on display at the Virtual Customer Experience Center (VCEC) include sanitation stations, safety panels, hospital beds, tables, partitions, desks and desk barriers. Also, on display are several “NEW” concepts and materials to be launched over the next several weeks. Assembly instructions and cut files are available, upon approval, to the requestor.

“Our team is ready with fresh ideas to provide value and solutions to our current and emerging markets,” says Ari Luna, Business Development Manager. “Available to meet through video or at your facility, we are here to help.”