Our Story

Three Generations. One Commitment to Quality.

ESCO Manufacturing was founded in 1965 by Clint Stein with a vision to produce high-quality signage for companies across the United States and beyond. What began in Watertown, South Dakota, has grown into one of the most respected wholesale sign manufacturers in the industry.

In 1980, Clint’s son Mark Stein took over the business, expanding ESCO’s capabilities and reputation over four decades of leadership.

By 2000, the company grew again—adding a 25,000 sq. ft. channel letter facility in Webster, SD, to complement its original 65,000 sq. ft. manufacturing space in Watertown.

In 2020, third-generation owner Stuart Stein—Mark’s son and Clint’s grandson—assumed leadership as President. Having grown up around the business and worked in multiple departments, Stuart brings deep, hands-on knowledge and a passion for continued innovation.

Today, ESCO Manufacturing employs over 120 skilled team members and continues to build custom signage with unmatched craftsmanship and care. With more than five decades of experience, we remain proudly rooted in the Midwest and focused on delivering:

  • Competitive pricing
  • Reliable quality
  • Exceptional service

Whether you're a long-time partner or a first-time customer, you can count on ESCO to deliver.
Knowledge. Communication. Performance.
We’re here for you—the sign industry professional.

Our company has used ESCO Manufacturing for many years for our wholesale electric sign needs. They have manufactured many different types of signs for us over the years. We have had the same sales rep for many years. That says a lot in itself about the company. They have never let us down and always delivered a quality product in a timely manner. They are very competitive and always have great ideas to help us with design and installation. I highly recommend them, they won't let you down
Justin Helmke
JH Signs
Our account rep has been with us from the start of All State Signs. Throughout the years we have come to rely on ESCO's extensive product knowledge and fast turn arounds to fill our customer needs. ESCO has always been a reliable source for our company, and as we grow, we will continue to rely on their terrific customer service and quality products.
Beau & Raean Bilbrey
All State Signs Great Falls, MT
ESCO Manufacturing has been our channel letter fabricator for over 12 years. They are an exemplary company that manufactures high quality products and we have been completely satisfied with their customer service. Their staff is knowledgeable and able to handle any request. We are happy to recommend their services.
Jerry & Marlene Sandmann
Sandmann Signs & Electric Inc.
I have used ESCO Manufacturing for the better part of 20 years as an outlet for sign projects when we are overloaded and have seen nothing but the best of Quality, no shortcuts on the manufacturing process and as always very easy to work with sign professionals.
Kirk Ronning
Indigo Signworks
We have worked with ESCO Manufacturing with many of our projects and have had great results. Our account rep has been great to work with providing ideas and giving us a great product. It's been a pleasure to work with ESCO and I highly recommend!
Christian Guenther
AP Design
My companies have worked with ESCO for many years. We have collaborated on many projects, receiving professional knowledge and products in a timely manner. From answering an install question while on the job site to planning and discussing initial project concept sketches, ESCO has always been able to offer me the know-how to offer my customers a professional experience! Thank you ESCO!
Cathy Krommenhoek
Total Motors
From the sales to fabrication, to shipping, and accounting departments, the entire process has been seamless. At any given time we can see exactly where our job is in the process. Over the years, your team has displayed nothing but professionalism. Thank you, ESCO, for being a vendor we can count on consistently. We look forward to our relationship continuing!  
Haley
Affordable Signs