From Garage to Global — Celebrating 34 Years of Growth, Grit, and Innovation

Dr. Shrink, Inc. was founded in April of 1992 by Mike and Jill Stenberg in Manistee, Michigan. Prior to that, the Stenbergs owned and operated a shrink wrap installation business in Traverse City, which they launched in 1986. After several successful years in installation, they recognized an opportunity within the industry—distribution. Acting on that insight, they sold their installation business in early 1992 and shifted their focus toward supplying shrink wrap materials. Soon after relocating to Manistee, Dr. Shrink, Inc. was born—right out of their home garage.

In those early days, the goal wasn’t long-term expansion—it was simply making it to the next month. Breaking into the shrink wrap distribution market proved challenging, and Mike and Jill quickly realized that adapting would be key to survival. They sought guidance, refined their processes, and committed themselves to learning the business inside and out. As Mike reflects, “It’s not always easy to ask for advice—and sometimes even harder to hear it—but growth starts when you’re willing to learn what you don’t know.” That mindset became a turning point. With determination, calculated risk, and an incredible work ethic, the business began to gain traction—and hasn’t slowed since.

From the start, Mike and Jill’s vision was clear: build a company rooted in industry expertise and customer needs. Having firsthand experience in shrink wrap installation, they understood the common challenges customers faced. That knowledge fueled their drive to develop innovative products and provide practical solutions that make shrink wrapping easier, more efficient, and more reliable. “We built this company around solving real problems,” says Mike. “If we can make our customers’ jobs easier and help them succeed, then we know we’re doing something right.”

Growth came quickly. Just one year after launching in their garage, the Stenbergs purchased their first warehouse in 1993—a 2,500-square-foot facility stocking up to 50,000 pounds of shrink wrap. As demand increased, so did the company’s reach. Dr. Shrink expanded into new markets, including international distribution, and today proudly serves customers in more than 80 countries around the world.

To keep pace with that growth, the company expanded its operations over the years—moving into a 12,000-square-foot custom-built warehouse in 2001, then into a 60,000-square-foot facility in 2005, where it remains today. With a 12,000-square-foot expansion added in 2012, Dr. Shrink now maintains over 1 million pounds of shrink wrap inventory, ready for immediate shipment.

While the company has grown significantly, its core mission remains unchanged. Dr. Shrink continues to focus on delivering the highest-quality products, unmatched customer service, expert training, and knowledgeable support. It has become a true one-stop shop for all things shrink wrap—trusted by professionals across industries worldwide.

At the heart of it all are the customers. Their feedback, ideas, and loyalty have helped shape Dr. Shrink into what it is today. By listening and responding to their needs, the company continues to innovate and improve year after year. As Mike puts it, “Our customers have always been our greatest source of inspiration. Their challenges push us to be better, and their success is what drives ours.”

As Dr. Shrink celebrates 34 years in business, we look ahead with the same passion and commitment that started it all—continuing to grow, evolve, and serve as your trusted partner in shrink wrap solutions.

Thank you for being part of our journey—here’s to many more years ahead.