From Factory Floor to Community Heart: The Rebel Spirit of Wisconsin's Wet Wipe Innovators
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MILWAUKEE - illiNews -- Milwaukee, Wisconsin – In the bustling industrial corridors of Milwaukee, giant rolls of nonwoven fabric whirl through custom machines, emerging as neatly packed wet wipes ready to clean homes, hospitals, and hands across the country. But at Rebel Converting, a family-owned wet wipe manufacturer, the real story isn't just about production—it's about people, purpose, and giving back in ways that touch lives far beyond the assembly line.

Founded in 2012 by owner Michael Kryshak, Rebel Converting has grown into one of the largest U.S. suppliers of coreless rolls and canister-packed wet wipes. What started as a focused operation specializing in high-quality, FDA- and EPA-regulated products has evolved into a beacon of innovation and sustainability. Kryshak, a hands-on leader who emphasizes that "excellence is our standard, and zero defects our commitment," built the company on a simple belief: businesses thrive when they prioritize people—employees, customers, and the community.

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Perhaps the most inspiring chapter of Rebel's story unfolded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. As demand for sanitizing wipes skyrocketed and supply chains faltered nationwide, the Rebel team didn't just ramp up production for their clients. They pivoted heroically, using in-house materials to produce and distribute over **4 million free face masks** to healthcare workers and those in need. "It was all hands on deck," recalls one long-time employee. "We worked around the clock because we knew it could save lives."

That same spirit of service powers Rebel Reform, the company's social outreach arm, led by Executive Director Loretta Kryshak. Through this initiative, Rebel has donated more than 4 million pounds of food annually to fight hunger in southeastern Wisconsin, partnering with local nonprofits to clothe families and fill pantries. And every holiday season, the team hosts a heartwarming bike giveaway: refurbishing bicycles, adding helmets and locks, and surprising kids with gifts that spark joy and mobility.

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But Rebel's rebellion doesn't stop at charity. In an industry often criticized for plastic waste, the company is leading a green revolution. Their mascot, Ridley the sea turtle, symbolizes a fierce commitment to protecting oceans and the planet. Rebel is pioneering plastic-free, plant-based wipes made from compostable materials and biodegradable substrates. They're reformulating solutions with deep green chemistry, offering eco-friendly packaging, and proving that premium quality and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

Long-tenured operators, many trained extensively on-site, take pride in the cleanest, most modern facilities in the industry. "We're like a family here," says Kryshak. "We retain our team because we invest in them, and that shows in every product we ship."

In a world of corporate giants, Rebel Converting stands out as a reminder that small, independent businesses can make a big difference. From wiping away germs to wiping away tears of gratitude in the community, this Wisconsin rebel is cleaning up—in more ways than one.