Ripon Printers’ History

The modern history of Ripon Printers began when the Lyke family purchased the Ripon Commonwealth Press in 1962. The company initially operated as a community newspaper and small commercial printer. The customer list was strictly local. There were 13 employees.

A modest web press purchased in 1965 changed the business substantially. With significant new capacity, Ripon began to produce longer run work regionally and then statewide.

Growth continued unabated, and the printing business was spun off in 1986. Today Ripon Printers, now led by youngest son Andy Lyke, is more than 235 employees strong and equipped with the latest technologies from premedia through fulfillment and distribution. We serve catalog marketers and publishers throughout the United States.

The newspaper, which dates back to the Civil War, still thrives under oldest son, Tim Lyke, and has won numerous awards over the years.

Chronology

Track our corporate milestones with the Ripon Printers’ Timeline.

Our Founder

The entrepreneurial spirit, family values and customer focus of founder Doug Lyke (1930-2002) continue to guide Ripon Printers. While his business savvy and salesmanship helped propel company growth, Doug’s friendliness and commitment to his employees made Ripon Printers a special place to work. We build upon his example each day.

Photo by Mike Sears.