Midwest Rake Company, Warsaw, IN, has purchased Seymour Manufacturing Co. Inc., Seymour, IN, effective September 28. Both companies reportedly will continue to operate independently with existing management in place; thereby requiring no change in customer relationships as it would pertain to the ongoing conduct of business.
“Both Midwest Rake and Seymour are healthy and progressive companies,” said Bill Henthorn, president and CEO of Midwest Rake Company. “We have great respect for the 140 year history of Seymour, the commitment to quality and integrity which underscores the Seymour heritage, and for the dedication and skills of Seymour employees in satisfying the needs of the customer. We are committed to protecting and building upon the many strengths of Seymour, with customer satisfaction being our top priority. We look forward to working with our employees, business partners and customers alike as we begin this new and exciting era.”
Midwest Rake Company is a 22-year-old, family-owned-and-operated manufacturer and supplier of long-handled tools used in a variety of markets and work environments. Midwest Rake products are sold domestically and internationally under the Midwest Rake, Kenyon, Northstar and Toolite labels. Known is also known for its OEM and private label capabilities.
Seymour Manufacturing began its history in Seymour in 1872 -- three years before the first telephone – as a manufacturer of wagon wheel spokes. Purchased by Semple and Birge Manufacturing Co., St. Louis, Seymour has remained in the Birge family since that time. During the middle of the last century, Seymour established its reputation of providing the market with high quality digging tools and snaths. Under the leadership of Berl Grant, Seymour Co. embarked on a program of product line expansion that included the 1995 acquisition of Structron and its line of fiberglass handled tools. More recently Seymour acquired O.P. Link, Inc. and its replacement handle business. Today, Seymour sells more than 2400 different lawn and garden tools, fireplace equipment and accessories. Seymour will continue to operate in Seymour and all three Tennessee locations.
“The Birge Family is delighted to announce the union of Seymour Manufacturing Co. and Midwest Rake, two like-minded family owned companies, with a tradition of integrity, quality, and service to their valued customers,” said Clifford Birge, Seymour chairman of the board. “We feel secure in our knowledge that our 140 year legacy will not only be preserved, but enhanced by the combined resources of the two companies.”
For more information visit www.midwestrake.com or www.seymourmfg.com.
