Whitesell Group, a North American leader in engineered fasteners, components and supply-chain solutions — historically known as Whitesell Corporation, Thread Rite Screw Products, Whitesell Supply and Whitesell Precision Components — announced today that it will now operate as Altius.

For more than five decades, the company now known as Altius has combined capabilities rarely found under one roof: internal manufacturing, value-add distribution and a high-performing global supply-chain network. Together, these capabilities allow Altius to deliver engineered fasteners, precision components, assemblies, fabrications and Class C parts with a level of scale, flexibility and integration uncommon in the market.

Signature Engineered Solutions (SES), a provider of engineered fasteners and products for manufacturing and industrial applications, today announced its partnership as an exclusive distributor for Grove Products, a Wisconsin-based manufacturer and distributor of metal hose fittings and adapters.

“We’re pleased to add Grove’s high-quality fittings and adapters to our growing line of products," said Reno Fricano, chief executive officer at Signature. “This partnership adds to our extensive supply chain network that offers the most sought-after fastener and engineered products in North America.”

Signature Engineered Solutions, a provider of engineered fasteners for manufacturing and industrial applications, today announced its selection as a North American distributor for Unbrako, a global manufacturer of high-strength industrial fasteners.

“The addition of Unbrako products to our broad line of fasteners will enable us to serve more customers in more markets across North America," said Michael Delfin, chief commercial officer at Signature. “This agreement reflects our growth strategy of leveraging our strong supply chain network and customer base to acquire more in-demand product lines.”

Innovative approaches to vendor-managed inventory, technical support, and company culture drive Field Fastener’s success

The Driven by DCKAP podcast recently welcomed Jim Derry, CEO of Field Fastener, for a discussion on the company’s impressive growth, strategic leadership, and commitment to community impact. Hosted by Karthik Chidambaram, the episode delves into how Field Fastener has evolved from a small business with $800,000 in revenue to a nearly $200 million enterprise, growing at a steady 20% per year.

Watch the full episode, or watch the clip where Jim discusses his involvement with NFDA.

GTSE is proud to announce the official launch of www.ephadistribution.com, a dynamic new platform dedicated to streamlining access to the innovative EPHA Hose Protectors, Looms, Spacers and Safety Sheaths. The EPHA product line is dedicated to preventing hose and cable wear, routing and management solutions.

This launch marks the beginning of an exciting partnership between GTSE and Mitch Myers, the President/CEO and co-founder of EPHA Inc. EPHA the “ORIGINAL HOSE PROTECTOR” has been a trailblazer in delivering high-quality hose and cable protection products for industrial and commercial applications for over 42 years. Through this collaboration, GTSE aims to enhance product availability, ensuring that customers across the globe can efficiently secure and protect their equipment with trusted EPHA solutions.

Martin Supply is pleased to announce that we have been recognized with the 2023 Supplier Excellence Award from Hunter Engineering Company. This prestigious accolade places us among only 11 businesses to receive this honor, underscoring our commitment to excellence and quality. Having last received this award in 2021, we are particularly proud to have reclaimed our position on the list through dedicated efforts.

“This achievement is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our team”, said Kevin Cozine, Vice President, Fastening Sales. “We will continue to strive for excellence and uphold the high standards that this recognition represents.”

Martin Supply, one of the nation’s leading providers of custom-tailored solutions for maintenance, repair, operation, and production supplies, proudly announces its acquisition of Trinity Hardware Headquarters (THHQ) from Agrisolutions (AGS), a leading global manufacturer of wear parts, components, and accessories. Based in Waukesha, Wisconsin, THHQ specializes in the supply of standard and custom components through catalog distribution, customized inventory management programs and product delivery services. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in Martin Supply's dedication to bolstering its presence within the fastening market and growing in this geographic region.

Commenting on the acquisition, Douglas Ruggles, Co-CEO of Martin Supply, stated, "We are excited to welcome THHQ to Martin Supply. This acquisition aligns seamlessly with our mission to deliver unparalleled quality and service to our valued customers. We are committed to upholding the legacy of excellence that THHQ has established."

Martin Supply, a leading provider of custom-tailored solutions for maintenance, repair, operation, and production supplies (MROP) in the industrial and construction markets, proudly announces its 90th anniversary. Established in 1934 by Louis Martin in Sheffield, AL, the company has achieved unparalleled growth and transformation, now led by the third and fourth generations of the Martin family.

From its modest origins, Martin Supply has undergone a remarkable evolution, expanding its footprint to encompass 48 distribution centers and integrated sites across the United States, while also conducting business internationally. Over the course of its 90-year journey, the company has continually evolved to meet the dynamic needs of its customers, transcending its role as a mere product supplier to offer a comprehensive suite of services. The company's dedication to “helping companies operate better" has earned it a well-deserved reputation for quality and reliability.

Sherex Fastening Solutions, a PennEngineering® Company and global leader in engineered fasteners, tooling, and automation, is proud to announce its relationship with Southeast Sales & Engineering as its new sales representative.

Southeast Sales & Engineering is a professional manufacturer’s representative specializing in the transportation and industrial markets in the southeastern United States, including Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, the Carolinas, Mississippi, and Virginia. Led by president Bo Oliver, Southeast Sales & Engineering brings over 20 years of experience working with manufacturers to find the right fastening solutions for their applications.

Sherex Fastening Solutions’ Optisert, the best performing round body rivet nut on the market, was recently awarded as a winner of the 2023 Fastener Innovation Awards by WorldwideFastenerSources.com.

The innovative Optisert was chosen as a winner because of its incredible performance against spin-out. Its proprietary combination of an engineered knurled body and underhead wedge design helps it grip into the base material to prevent it from spinning. In softer materials, like aluminum, plastics, and composites, the spin-out performance matches that of a full hex body rivet nut.

Fastener Training Institute (FTI), the leading source for ongoing fastener education, is planning its next Fastener Training Week in Cleveland, OH, April 8-12. The training will be held at Brighton-Best International. 

“We are excited to welcome our next class of Fastener Training Week students,” shared Jo Morris, Marketing Director for Fastener Training Institute. “Knowledge builds confidence and leads to a safer industry. FTI is committed to providing continuous opportunities for all levels of fastener education,” she added. 

PennEngineering^® announced today the acquisition of Sherex^® Fastening Solutions, a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and installation of blind rivet nut and associated fastening solutions.

Headquartered in Buffalo, New York, Sherex is the premier technical provider of blind rivet nuts, with strong application expertise, and production capabilities worldwide.  Sherex has achieved an impressive growth trajectory and continues to grow through technical solutions selling, providing best total installed cost solutions along with industry leading rivet nut capabilities.

SPIROL International Holding Corporation Board of Directors announces the unanimous decision to appoint Jeffrey F. Koehl as Chairman of SPIROL International Holding Corporation.  Jeff joined the company in 1997, and has been serving as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SPIROL International Corporation since his appointment in 2010. 

Jeff succeeds his father, Hans H. Koehl, who passed away on November 30, 2023.  Serving as Chairman of SPIROL International Holding Corporation since his appointment in 1969, Hans retired from active management of the company in 2004 after 45 of dedicated service.  Hans’ vision, dedication, and passion led to the transformation of SPIROL from being a small, family-owned business in Northeast Connecticut into a world-renowned manufacturing company with locations on 4 continents and in 13 countries.  It is impossible to put into words the unparralled contributions that Hans made to SPIROL over the last 64 years – most importantly the education, coaching and mentoring of his son, Jeff, in preparation for him to be his successor.

DECEMBER 19, 1934 – NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Hans passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife Christina, son Jeff, and close friend Russ on November 30, 2023.  Born in Stolberg, Germany to the late Herman Koehl and Maria Altdorf Koehl, Hans immigrated with his mother, father and two sisters, Gerda and Emmy, to the United States in 1948 and settled in Woodstock, CT.

Shortly after starting school in the US, Hans quickly mastered the English language and skipped ahead two grades within his first year at The Woodstock Academy.  After graduating from Killingly High School in Dayville, CT, Hans went on to earn his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering with distinction from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in 1956, and his Juris Doctorate from Stanford University in 1958.  While at WPI, Hans was a member of the men’s soccer team, and he participated in Masque (student led dramatic theater organization), the Peddler (yearbook for the graduating class) and the Debating Club.  He was also a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity where he served as President his senior year. 

Eurolink FSS is pleased to announce the addition of two new manufacturer sales representative firms to our already amazing nationwide sales force. Beginning January 1, 2024, these strategic partnerships will significantly enhance our presence in the West, Southwest, and Rocky Mountain states, and help us to improve service for our valued clients in these regions.

With a commitment to excellence and a proven track record in driving sales growth, Budd Sales (Tom Buddenbaum) and Desert Distribution (John Wachman, Jo Morris, & David Palmquist) bring a wealth of experience and industry knowledge to our expanding network. Their dedication to customer satisfaction aligns seamlessly with our core values, and we are confident that these partnerships will contribute to mutually beneficial relationships. We look forward to the increased opportunities and collaboration that these partnerships will bring, ultimately delivering unparalleled service and support to our customers in their represented states.

Martin, one of the nation’s leading providers of custom-tailored solutions for maintenance, repair, operation, and production supplies, is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott McDaniel as Executive Vice President. In this pivotal role, Scott will spearhead the development and implementation of strategic initiatives for Martin’s Fastening business unit to optimize operational efficiency and profitability, and foster synergy across all Martin business units.  Scott will also provide leadership as a key member of Martin executive leadership group, all aimed at achieving the Martin's overarching business objectives.

Scott has a wealth of experience and expertise in the distribution industry, with a remarkable 25-year career dedicated to the Fastener OEM/C Class Component Sector. His extensive background includes executive roles at prominent companies such as Anixter International, Wurth, and Optimus. Scott's leadership acumen, combined with his profound industry knowledge and a well-established professional network, uniquely positions him to make a significant impact on the vision and future success at Martin.

Martin Supply is pleased to announce the appointment of Steve McClanahan as its new chief financial officer (CFO).

Steve brings with him a wealth of experience, having spent the past 25 years at ANConnect, formerly Anderson Merchandisers, an $800 million wholesale distribution company. While at ANConnect, Steve held several executive management positions, including CFO and COO. Notably, he played a pivotal role in overseeing 13 merger and acquisition projects, with a combined estimated value of $350 million, contributing significantly to the company's growth and success.

Sherex is very excited to see our president, Adam Pratt, present "Embracing Rivet Nut Technologies" at 2pm on Tuesday at the International Fastener Expo!

Listen to how rivet nut technology has improved, and discover how embracing these new rivet nuts can help improve assembly times, decrease waste, and enhance application functionality, especially when compared to weld nuts. Join us at the Sessions Stage!

 Marc O. Strandquist, 61, of Jackson, TN, passed away on Thursday, August 31, 2023. Born June 5, 1962, in Wurzburg, Germany, the son of Jack D. Strandquist and Johana Rhineline.

Marc is survived by his wife, Vonda; three wonderful children, Erica Strandquist, A.J. Strandquist, and Thomas (Alyssa) Strandquist; grandchildren, Walter and Oliver; mother, Johana; siblings, Kyle (Kris Curtiss) Strandquist and Mike (Mary Ellen) Strandquist; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his father, Jack. 

Fastener Training Institute (FTI) is partnering with International Fastener Expo (IFE) and hosting a day-long fastener training class on Monday, October 9. IFE runs October 9-11 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Fastener Fundamentals - The Nuts and Bolts for Fastener Professionals, will be instructed by Carmen Vertullo, Fastener Consultant and Trainer of Carver Labs. He will teach the basics of fasteners and beyond to industry professionals including the best of Fastener Training Institute’s Fastener Basic Training and Certified Specialist Training programs.