Franklin Industries is entering its 124th year continuing to manufacture steel products made 100% from recycled scrap rail. While there remain only a handful of direct competitors to Franklin Industries in the U.S., the market is global, making the struggle to remain competitive against foreign products a constant challenge. Combating the inconsistent and sluggish economy, this steel rolling mill continues to work smarter to stay ahead of its competitors.
“The stagnant economy and effects of inflation continued to be a challenge for us in 2024,” Scott Peters, VP of Sales and Marketing relays. “We’ve seen this in all our business channels as even state and municipalities’ dollars weren’t stretching as far.” To combat this, Franklin Industries focused on different markets and new customer and product opportunities to fill the gap.
The improvements to the mill furnace that were completed in 2023, spearheaded by Equipment Manager Tim McDeavitt and Process Engineer Axel Kovalchick, produced the results expected in 2024, with increased cycle times and a large increase in tons per day being rolled. Franklin Industries continued with improvements in key areas of the mill, shear and highway departments throughout 2024 to support the company’s growth plans through the upcoming years.
Franklin Industries is focused on becoming ISO 9001;2015 certified, with their Quality Manager Paul Pearson leading the effort in updating processes and enhancing document control. They also continue their focus on Lean Manufacturing improvements with ongoing training through NWIRC.
The past year Franklin Industries didn’t only see changes in their mill and departments, but saw the retirement of key individuals in the organization. Joe Frazzetta and Herb Barker both moved on to the retired life from VP of Sales and Mill Manager, respectively. Franklin Industries continues to actively recruit the best talent available and has filled key positions throughout the year with great additions to their team. Workforce development will remain a priority through the upcoming year to support the needs of the company and its future growth.
While the company still produces its typical u-channel sign post and t-post products, one new variation has been added to the lineup, specifically a purple-tipped t-post, dubbed the “Border Guard” post. The purple tip meets the state requirements for marking “no trespassing” property boundaries and is an exclusive trademark of Franklin Industries.
Community involvement is always a priority with Franklin Industries, which sponsors the number 11r big block modified race car driven by Brad Rapp, and the company’s own softball team. The first weekend in August saw the return of their annual FI Family Day being held at Waldameer Park and Water World. This event is highly anticipated by all employees and Franklin Industries welcomes them and their families for a catered lunch and all-day access to the amusement park.
2025 will mark the 23rd year of ownership by the Kovalchick family. Their commitment to the continued operations of Franklin’s steel manufacturing industry guarantees that Franklin Industries will remain a key employer in the region for years to come.
