1920 was a roaring time for growth and opportunity. That is when August L. Hansen founded his hardware manufacturing company in the Chicago area. He was an entrepreneur, manufacturer, and inventor. You may have even used one of his inventions; the industrial stapler. Called the "Hansen Tacker" then, today it is a common workshop tool. Also, if your old enough, you may have seen another product; the five sided "Wrigley Revolving Gum Display" stand in drug stores. While these were the more recognized products of the time, the core business was hardware components for industrial and vehicle markets.

For eighty years, "Hardware for Hard Wear" has been the slogan that tells the real story of A. L. Hansen Mfg. As the trailer and truck body markets developed and changed over the years, the handles, hinges, latches, and door locks used on the early trailers and truck bodies were solid and reliable Hansen products. Many NATM and NTEA members have grown up with hardware components from A. L. Hansen Mfg. and they still use them today. Eighty years later, in the year 2000, the A. L. Hansen Mfg. Co. is still manufacturing industrial and vehicle hardware.  The grandsons manage a vibrant business that is recognized as an industry leader. Today, the company is located in Waukegan, Illinois and has 150 employees. The company is a full service manufacturer with design and prototyping capabilities, along with in - house tool making facilities. Hardware components like hinges, grab handles, and door hold back systems are designed, manufactured, assembled, finished and packed to meet exacting customers standards.

The last 10 years have seen tremendous growth and investment. Sales have doubled in the last 8 years and continue to grow. The company has made significant investments in upgrading its engineering 3D CAD and prototype development equipment. Also, 14 new presses were acquired to boost manufacturing capacity and quality. In the spring of 2001, there will be a building expansion adding, 18,000 Sq. Ft. of additional...