Innovation, calculated risk taking, quality excellence and teamwork are hallmarks of Algonquin Automotive\'s exciting evolution to global
capabilities and vigorous growth in the Muskoka Region.
The company was established as Algonquin Metals in Huntsville to
manufacture trailer hitches and towing accessories in 1968, and was
renamed Ideal Algonquin in 1969. Then along came Jim Alexander, a
dynamic young businessman looking for a company with exciting growth
potential. In 1976, he bought half of the organization, and acquired the
remainder in 1980. Over the next decade, Jim built an energetic team who
thrived on the challenge of taking calculated risks with the development
and launch of new products, focusing on affordable, innovative quality
accessories that allow consumers to customize their vehicles for
appearance and utility.
Through the 1990\'s, Ideal Algonquin made a bold move by adding enhanced
designs for running boards - thereby attracting the automotive
industry\'s major original equipment manufacturer (OEMs), including
Toyota, General Motors, Chrysler and Ford. The growth in global
capabilities and quality standards initiated the creation of two
separate business groups in 1994: Algonquin Automotive and Hidden Hitch
(led by Rob Alexander, Jim\'s son). To accommodate the fast-paced growth,
the Gravenhurst facility was purchased in 1996. Rob Alexander accepted
the position of Chief Executive Officer for Algonquin Automotive in
1998, as Jim chose semi-retirement.
With a strong commitment to the Muskoka Region, and in recognition of
the importance of quality paint processing for parts production,
Algonquin entered a joint venture with the Crown Groups\' paint facility
in Bracebridge in 1999. Then, in 2001, two key decisions were made: to
sell Hidden Hitch and focus on operational excellence in Algonquin
Automotive; and to acquire the Crown Group\'s Bracebridge facility rather
than lose a valuable, local supplier.
And here we are today . . . a dynamic team determined to be the best in
the world at two things: supplying variety at low cost and
commercializing proprietary innovations. As a value-driven company,
we\'re building a culture of excellence. Together, we face a prosperous
future of exciting change, innovation and growth.
