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| 06-27-03: QualiTec Inc. purchases long-time local
business |
By TIMOTHY COX
The Daily Standard
Details about the sale of the former Ringle Plating Co. in Celina have
been released.
The long-time metal-plating business at 441 Grand Lake Road has been
purchased by QualiTec Metal Finishers Inc., and has taken on that name. QualiTec officials
said in a news release that the local operation would be expanded but did not say exactly
how many jobs might be added here.
QualiTec owner David Kriegel, of Van Wert, said he bought Ringle
because of its similarities to his existing business and because of Ringle's strengths.
Kriegel specifically identified Ringle's ability to diversify its customer base and
plating lines.
Ringle demonstrated that ability after the closure of Huffy Bicycle Co.
in Celina in 1998. Much of Ringle's business was through the bike maker and when the local
factory closed, the plating shop saw a lot of its business leave too.
But the company expanded its product line and plating processes to stay
viable. After the Huffy closure, Ringle added other product lines, including its Western
Heritage Collection of items made of plated horseshoes for tack and stable rooms. The
company also makes flagpoles, camping and music stools, and truck and bus accessories.
Ringle specializes in nickel, chrome and zinc plating.
"We were looking to expand our plating presence in the region.
Ringle offered a strong, experienced work force, good customer base and good
facilities," QualiTec owner David Kriegel said. "Also, we were looking for a
vibrant community with a good work force and one that is industry-friendly. Celina offers
all of those things."
Former Ringle owner Alan Smith will continue to serve as QualiTec's
general manager at the Celina shop. Todd Kriegel has been named president of the company,
adding to his duties as president of three other company holdings. |
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All content copyright 2003
The Standard Printing
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45822 |
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