FAMILY OPERATED FOR 114 YEARS
We are a fourth generation family business serving
customers in Northern Illinois, Southern Wisconsin,
and now across the country.
On March 28, 1912, R.I. Balsley made a bold decision to move his family from Findlay, Ohio, to Rockton, Illinois, in pursuit of owning his own newspaper. He purchased the *Rockton Herald*, becoming publisher of the weekly newspaper and operating the print shop in downtown Rockton.
Before relocating, R.I. gained valuable experience working alongside his father, Alfred H. Balsley, in Findlay. Alfred had launched his printing career in 1842 and went on to own several newspapers throughout Ohio, establishing a strong family legacy in the industry. Building on that foundation, R.I. carried the tradition forward—laying the groundwork for what would become generations of Balsley printers in Rockton.
R.I. Balsley continued printing alongside his son, Guy, well into his 80s before retiring in 1962—demonstrating a lifelong dedication to the craft.
After graduating from Hononegah High School in 1932, Guy joined his father in the family printing business. He later followed in R.I.’s footsteps, serving as publisher and editor of the *Rockton Herald* until the newspaper was sold in 1965. As the founder of Balsley Printing, Guy remained deeply committed to serving the local community. At one point, Walt Williamson invited him to relocate the print shop to the Wagon Wheel Resort, further expanding the company’s presence.
Even after retiring in 1979, Guy’s passion for printing never faded—you could still find him in the shop from time to time, lending a hand and helping with projects.
In 1974, Jim Balsley took a bold step into the family business by purchasing his own printing press and partnering with his father, Guy. A year later, his brother John joined Balsley Printing, strengthening the company’s foundation.
Together, they embraced emerging technologies and expanded their reach throughout northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. As the business grew, Jim and John acquired several additional printing companies to further broaden their capabilities and market presence. During this period of growth, the now-recognizable penguin logo was also introduced—marking the beginning of a lasting brand identity.
In 2002, Sam Balsley, Jim’s son, joined Balsley Printing. After a short time in the banking industry, he transitioned into a sales and marketing role—where he quickly discovered his passion. It wasn’t long before he decided to fully commit to the family business.
Sam focused on developing vertical markets and customized print programs, with Urgent Care emerging as a key opportunity. Under his leadership, Balsley Printing grew into a leading marketing and print partner for Urgent Care clinics nationwide—a position the company proudly maintains today.
In 2017, Sam acquired Balsley Printing from Jim and John, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The company continued to expand, building on its strong foundation and growing reputation.
Growth accelerated in 2020 with the acquisition of GEM Printing in Beloit, Wisconsin. A trusted name in the community for 25 years, GEM was a natural fit and a valuable addition to the Balsley family.
In 2022, Balsley Printing expanded expanded again by purchasing Freeport Press in Freeport, Illinois. As the city’s only commercial printing company, Freeport Press allowed us to bring enhanced capabilities and services to businesses throughout the area. Becoming part of the Freeport community has been a privilege.
Most recently, in 2025, we welcomed Rockford Litho Center in Rockford, Illinois, into our organization. For more than 40 years, Rockford Litho Center has been a cornerstone of the region’s printing and marketing industry, known for its innovation, quality, and support of local businesses and nonprofit organizations.
Now, 114 years after our founding, Balsley Printing remains proudly located on Main Street, continuing to meet the printing and mailing needs of businesses both large and small. Family has always been central to our success—not just the Balsley family, but the dedicated team members who make up our extended family. Many of them have been with us for more than 20 years, helping shape the company into what it is today.
