Magnetic separator equipment specialist Eriez celebrates 80 years in business

The Eriez story began in 1942 when founder O.F. Merwin installed a permanent magnet in a grain mill. The Erie, PA-based company today, built of a workforce of more than 900 individuals located throughout 12 wholly owned international subsidiaries on six continents, is a global specialist in magnetic separation, flotation, metal detection and material handling equipment technology.

Over eight decades, the company says, Eriez has worked diligently to advance the mining, processing, packaging, food, recycling, aggregate and metalworking industries it serves. It adds that company process engineers and scientists have developed countless product breakthroughs in the areas of rare earth magnets, superconducting technology, flotation, vibratory feeders, metal detection, auto scrap recycling equipment, suspended electromagnets, eddy current separation, and proprietary manufacturing techniques.

Lukas Guenthardt

Eriez is a family-run company with O.F. Merwin’s grandson Richard Merwin currently serving as chairman. Richard’s late father, Bob Merwin, had a global vision for Eriez and took the company into international markets in the 1950s.

While product innovation has been paramount to achieving and growing Eriez’ position as a global leader, management asserts that it is the team of people who really make the difference. “The integrity, commitment, responsiveness and unmatched customer service provided by our outstanding staff is what truly keeps us on the leading-edge,” says Eriez president and CEO Lukas Guenthardt.

Eriez employees are said to give generously of their financial resources, time, and talents to philanthropic causes.

“As a corporation and as individuals, we are dedicated to making a lasting, positive impact on the well-being of the communities where we live and work. We believe this approach produces an atmosphere where businesses and communities can collaborate and prosper,” says Guenthardt.

John Blicha

The Eriez team is made up of more than just its direct employees. The company’s network of long-time sales representatives has played a significant role in the company’s history and success, according to Eriez leadership.

Another contributing factor which helps Eriez flourish is its heavy focus on marketing communications. “We put a strong emphasis on sustaining maximum customer engagement,” says Eriez senior director of Global Marketing and Brand Management John Blicha.

“We believe in making significant investments, both in terms of time and finances, to advertising, branding, public relations, trade shows, digital marketing and customer education.”