The Industrial Steel Drum Institute (ISDI) recently honored longtime member Leonard Berenfield with the organization’s Lifetime Membership Award. The ISDI Lifetime Membership Award is given to long‐time members of the steel drum industry in recognition of their service and dedication to the organization and the industry. It was presented to Berenfield during the Opening Plenary of the Industrial Packaging Alliance of North America’s Spring Conference in early May in Greensboro, N.C.
“Len is a pillar in our industry, and I am honored to formally recognize his many accomplishments,” said Kyle Stavig, chair of ISDI. “For four generations, the Berenfield family has shown great dedication to the steel drum business. Their lasting contributions will long be held up as examples of how to seek out new opportunities and create innovative solutions that drive our industry forward.”
Berenfield Containers was founded as the Berenfield Barrel Company in 1914 by Harry Berenfield. It remained in the Berenfield family until its sale in 2016. Over the years, the company grew, expanding to six plants in four states. From the start, the Berenfield family played an active role in the industry. They became early members of the National Barrel & Drum Association, now known as the Reusable Industrial Packing Association (RIPA), as well as members of the Steel Shipping Container Institute (SSCI), now known as ISDI.
“It’s an honor to be recognized for my company’s work, and my family’s commitment to our industry,” said Mr. Berenfield, former president of Berenfield Containers. “My family has always strived to grow and modernize, and it’s humbling to see the impact our work had on others.”
Mr. Berenfield served in various roles on the boards of SSCI and ISDI, and as SSCI’s Board Chairman from 2005 to 2007. He is now enjoying his retirement with his family, splitting time between Ohio and Florida.