J&R Schugel Trucking staff members assemble in front of a lineup of company semi‑trucks at the New Ulm terminal. The employee‑owned carrier continues to invest in equipment, workforce development and regional operations.

NEW ULM, Minn. — J&R Schugel Trucking is building on its 50-year history with workforce growth, a major fleet investment and a strategic partnership, while keeping its headquarters and primary operations in New Ulm.

The company, founded in 1974, became 100% employee-owned in 2014.

“Being employee-owned creates a strong sense of pride and accountability across our workforce,” said Courtney Antonsen, chief administrative officer. “Our employees understand that their work directly contributes to the long-term strength of the organization.”

Approximately 90 corporate staff members in New Ulm support logistics, operations, customer service and administration. In 2025, the New Ulm terminal onboarded about 150 professional drivers.

“Our New Ulm headquarters remains the heart of our organization,” Antonsen said. “We are proud to continue creating meaningful career opportunities that support both our employees and the broader community.”

The company committed roughly $31 million in 2025 to acquire 173 new trucks, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.

“Investing in modern equipment allows us to operate more safely and efficiently while meeting the evolving needs of our customers,” said Sean Claton, CEO.

In 2025, the fleet traveled more than 61.9 million miles and handled 91,565 shipments nationwide. In southern Minnesota, it picked up 5,742 outbound loads–more than 57% originating in New Ulm–and delivered 3,689 inbound loads. Key regional customers include Kraft, 3M, AMPI and American Artstone.

J&R Schugel participated in community events including the ECFE vehicle fair, local parades, adopt-a-family programs and New Ulm High School’s Career and Technical Education program.

“Supporting education and community programs is part of who we are,” Antonsen said.

In October 2025, the company joined Interstate Personnel Services, creating a larger employee-owned transportation organization with approximately 2,000 tractors and 6,000 trailers nationwide. The partnership improves financial stability and operational resources while maintaining J&R Schugel’s employee-owned structure and New Ulm headquarters.

On Feb. 11, 2026, J&R Schugel received the Large Business of the Year award from the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce at its annual meeting, recognizing the company’s economic contributions and community involvement.

“As we look to the future, our focus remains on safety, dependable service and continued investment in our people,” Claton said. “Those priorities will continue to guide J&R Schugel as we build on the foundation established over the past 50 years.”