Ames, Iowa
November 6, 2007
In the summer of 1982, two young
entrepreneurs rented a 640-square-foot building on the east side
of Ames and opened their new business –
Becker Underwood.
Today, the company’s facilities include 12 sites on 4
continents, with more than 300 employees. And the company
recently announced plans for a second facility to be located in
Ames to the north of its current operation.
Many Becker Underwood products are used to enhance the
appearance and performance of crop seeds planted on millions of
acres globally. Other Becker Underwood products are employed to
enhance the appearance of some of the most well-known sports
venues in the U.S. Still others help enhance the appearance of
decorative flower beds gracing thousands of businesses and homes
across the U.S.
“Much
has changed since Jeff Becker and Roger Underwood (photo) formed
Becker Underwood 25 years ago,” notes Dr Peter Innes, CEO.
“Agricultural and horticultural markets have changed
immeasurably over these years. We have seen great turbulence in
the markets in which we do business. Yet, despite the
challenges, Becker Underwood has grown annually in both sales
and profitability. This reflects with great credit on our
dedicated and committed staff, and especially their
determination to put our customers first and to create value for
them.
“The development of new products built on new technology will
continue to revolutionize our industry,” Innis notes. “The next
25 years will see developments that are beyond our imagination
today. And we intend to take a lead in developing and
commercializing such technology with all the enthusiasm and
commitment that has driven this company’s success in the past.
“It is a great achievement for the Company to have reached its
Silver Anniversary,” Innes says. “We will celebrate this
achievement in the months ahead. But already, our focus is on
the future, which we face with our customary drive and
optimism.” |
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