The medical supply company began as a family run operation in Chicago in 1966

NORTHFIELD, Illinois—Medline, a manufacturer and distributer of medical supplies, announced it is celebrating its 60th anniversary this June. 

Officially founded in June 1966 by brothers Jim and Jon Mills, the company began as a family-run operation that manufactured healthcare apparel for providers in and around Chicago, Illinois.

During its time in operation, the company said it has achieved the following:

  • Became a distributor of approximately 335,000 healthcare products, including approximately 190,000 under the Medline Brand and about 70,000 of those self-manufactured
  • Net sales of more than $28.4 billion in 2025
  • 70 global distribution centers
  • 30 global manufacturing facilities
  • More than 45,000 employees worldwide, including a United States commercial team of more than 4,000
  • A fleet of 2,100+ MedTrans delivery trucks enabling next-day delivery to 95% of U.S. customers

“The evidence of our impact is unmistakable as we’ve progressed through the years, relentlessly focusing on serving healthcare providers across all points of care, building a massive product portfolio and establishing one of the most robust and resilient supply chains in the industry,” said Doug Golwas, chief commercial officer. “Every moment of every day, as healthcare providers seek to provide the best care for their patients, Medline is right by their side.”