If you are a local of Lakeland, or a lover of unique small town traditions, the “largest Salvation Army kettle” is a story of much intrigue. While Lakeland is quickly growing past the small city size, that charm remains, and so do the altruistic laurels of this kettle, which was created by Industrial Plastic Systems (IPS).

Sunny Zimmermann, a Salvation Army board member as of 2004, is noted in an article from The Ledger about wanting to make a large Salvation Army kettle, but thinking of industrial tanks and how to make it lighter. 

“He enlisted the help of Barron Burhans and Joe W. Brown at IPS on Drane Field Road. They turned out a kettle to be reckoned with: 9 feet high, and 8 feet 4 inches in diameter. Zimmermann said they’ve calculated it would take 2,313 gallons to fill it.”

The kettle has enjoyed some fun makeovers for the iconic Lakeland Christmas parade over the years. In 2023, it was dressed up as a giant gumball machine AKA, the “Hope Dispenser.” In 2025, it was given a giant pair of DJ headphones to match the parade’s music theme, Rockin’ Around Lakeland.

Created over 20 years ago at the time of writing, the kettle holds much treasured history for IPS. Check out our video about the FRP kettle by clicking here!

The kettle project was sourced by employees who have since passed away, and produced by multiple employees who have either moved on to other companies or are still here, decades later. One employee states the initials of those who manufactured it are proudly located on the inside.

At the time, the Lakeland kettle produced by IPS was the largest in the world. Detroit Michigan has surpassed this in measure, creating one at 56 feet tall and 24 feet wide.

However, even as recently as 2023, our Polk County kettle still is referred to as the largest because it is a bucket type structure that can hold donations (IE, volume) versus a very impressive, gorgeous light installation.

Either way, no matter the decoration or the size, the message is consistent across the board. To help families in need.

“Industrial Plastics Systems’ creation of our giant red kettle has become more than a display; it is a powerful symbol of The Salvation Army’s mission in Lakeland. Whether it’s ushering in Santa at our annual Kettle Kickoff or rolling through the streets of downtown with excited children during the Christmas parade, this kettle helps us tell our story in a way that captures hearts and sparks joy. It has been an incredible tool in spreading hope, generosity, and the message of what The Salvation Army is all about,” says Captain Matt Hedgren, who is the Corps Officer of The Salvation Army of West Polk County.

If you want to support the Lakeland Salvation Army, check it out here.

We love unique FRP projects like the Salvation Army Kettle! Call us at 863-646-8551, or send us a Quote request form so we can help bring your fiberglass reinforced plastic visions to life!