Blain’s Farm & Fleet Named One of America’s Best Large Employers of 2025 by Forbes
Blain’s Farm & Fleet has achieved a significant milestone by being named one of America’s Best Large Employers for 2025 by Forbes. This recognition marks the company’s seventh consecutive year on the prestigious list and, for the first time, its inclusion in the Large Employers category. Blain’s Farm & Fleet ranked second in the Retail and Wholesale category among Wisconsin’s large employers and secured the sixth spot across all industries in the state. Nationally, it placed 23rd in the Retail and Wholesale category, underscoring its reputation as an outstanding employer within the retail sector.
This achievement is particularly meaningful for Blain’s Farm & Fleet as it represents its transition from the Best Midsize Employer category to the Best Large Employer category. The company exceeded the 5,000-employee threshold, marking a significant growth milestone. This transition reflects Blain’s continued expansion while maintaining the strong values that have defined its workplace culture for decades—trust, respect, and opportunity. By entering the Large Employers category, Blain’s has demonstrated its ability to compete with larger national and multinational employers while remaining steadfast in its commitment to its employees and its core mission.
The recognition by Forbes serves as a testament to Blain’s Farm & Fleet’s dedication to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and engaging work environment. The company prides itself on creating a workplace where associates feel valued, empowered, and motivated to grow in their careers.
Commitment to Employee Well-being and Growth
Blain’s Farm & Fleet has always placed a strong emphasis on employee satisfaction, professional development, and well-being. The company’s people-first approach ensures that associates have access to comprehensive benefits, opportunities for career advancement, and a culture that encourages innovation and collaboration.
“Our team’s exceptional contributions are at the core of this recognition,” said Chief Executive Officer and President Mark Hasting. “Entering the Large Employers category while maintaining the same standard of excellence speaks volumes about our team of Associates. Their dedication has built a workplace culture that supports growth, innovation, and a strong sense of community, ensuring we continue to meet the needs of our Associates and customers.
Blain’s Farm & Fleet believes that an engaged and motivated workforce translates into exceptional customer service and business success. The company prioritizes professional growth by offering leadership training, mentorship programs, and internal promotions. Through these initiatives, employees are given the tools and support needed to advance their careers within the organization.
Forbes’ Best Employers Ranking Methodology
Forbes compiles its annual America’s Best Employers list based on an extensive independent survey. This year, more than 217,000 U.S. employees across various industries participated. The survey includes companies with workforces of 1,000 or more employees and evaluates them based on key factors such as workplace culture, career development opportunities, compensation, and overall job satisfaction.
Survey respondents are asked to rate their employers on a variety of criteria, including their willingness to recommend their workplace to others. Additionally, they provide insights into their employer’s treatment of diversity, inclusion efforts, workplace flexibility, and benefits packages. The results help Forbes identify the most employee-friendly companies in the country, and being included in this list is a significant achievement for any employer.
Blain’s Farm & Fleet’s placement on the list highlights its ability to grow while remaining true to its core mission—treating customers like neighbors and associates like family. The company’s strong sense of community, coupled with its people-focused philosophy, has contributed to its sustained success and expansion.
Why Blain’s Farm & Fleet Stands Out as an Employer of Choice
One of the defining features of Blain’s Farm & Fleet as an employer is its unwavering commitment to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. Employees at Blain’s benefit from a comprehensive package of benefits, including competitive salaries, health and wellness programs, and professional development opportunities. The company also offers:
- A Positive Workplace Culture: Blain’s emphasizes respect, integrity, and teamwork, ensuring that associates feel like valued members of a close-knit community.
- Career Advancement Opportunities: The company prioritizes promoting from within, encouraging employees to pursue leadership roles and offering training programs to help them succeed.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Associates have access to competitive health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits that contribute to their overall well-being.
- Commitment to Work-Life Balance: Blain’s Farm & Fleet recognizes the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and provides flexible scheduling options where possible.
- Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: The company is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel welcome and valued.
“Attracting, developing, and retaining top talent remains essential to our momentum as we continue to expand,” said Chief Human Resources Officer Anna Gedman. “This recognition reinforces our reputation as an employer of choice. We are committed to providing meaningful career opportunities, competitive benefits, and a workplace where associates can grow and thrive.”
A Legacy of Excellence and Continued Growth
Founded in 1955, Blain’s Farm & Fleet is celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2025, marking seven decades of growth, customer service, and commitment to its associates. What started as a small business has evolved into a leading specialty retailer with 45 locations across Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
In addition to its brick-and-mortar stores, Blain’s has expanded its digital presence, allowing customers to shop online through its website and mobile app. This continued evolution showcases the company’s ability to adapt to changing consumer needs while maintaining its core values of offering high-quality products, competitive prices, and outstanding service.
Blain’s Farm & Fleet’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its workforce. The company is actively involved in community initiatives, charitable programs, and sustainability efforts. Through partnerships with local organizations and nonprofit groups, Blain’s supports numerous causes, including education, environmental sustainability, and disaster relief efforts. This dedication to corporate social responsibility further strengthens its reputation as an employer that not only values its employees but also gives back to the communities it serves.
