A new era in office organization begins.
Naperville, IL — June 2, 2025 — Two icons in office organization are officially joining forces. TOPS Products has acquired Smead Manufacturing Company, bringing together over a century of craftsmanship, innovation, and design expertise. Together, these brands will continue shaping how people organize, create, and stay productive — for generations to come.
A Shared Legacy of Craft and Innovation
Founded in 1906, Smead has spent more than a century shaping how we organize our world: from creating the first Bandless File System to producing over two million wallets for the Armed Forces during WWII. Every Smead product carries that same spirit of durability, function, and timeless design.
TOPS, whose brands date back to 1870, shares that same DNA: a legacy built on making tools that help people stay focused, creative, and organized. With this acquisition, Smead, U BRANDS, and Smead Custom now exist under one umbrella — a collective of brands that believe great design should make everyday life easier and a little more inspiring.
Carrying a Legacy Forward
“Smead fits perfectly into the TOPS family of brands,” said Matt Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of TOPS. “Smead makes great products and has for over a century, and its industry expertise, coupled with an unwavering commitment to their employees and customers, mirrors what we believe we’ve built here at TOPS. We’re honored to be entrusted to carry on the Smead legacy of quality and innovation that has defined the brand for over a century.”
Casey Avent, CEO of Smead, added, “After nearly 120 years as a family-owned business, I’m proud to usher in this new chapter for Smead with the right home to build upon what we’ve created. Joining TOPS is the next step in a line of strategic decisions we’ve made to do what’s best for the Smead business and our exceptional team.”
Together, the brands will continue to evolve how people organize — uniting heritage and modern innovation under one strong, creative vision for the future of work.
About TOPS Products
With roots going back to 1870, TOPS Products is a North American leader in the manufacturing of home, school, and office products. The company’s mission is simple: to make the tools that empower people to live focused, organized, and creative lives. With facilities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, TOPS operates with a vision to build the most comprehensive selection of office, school, and home organizational supplies — all backed by a heritage of quality and innovation.
About Smead
Founded in 1906, Smead has led the office organization industry for more than a century. Known for its craftsmanship, innovation, and forward-thinking design, Smead continues to deliver filing and organization solutions that enhance everyday work and life. From classic file folders to custom organizational tools, Smead’s products are made to last — and made to keep up with the modern professional.