October 25th, 2021

“Kolene has always looked for ways to grow revenues, both organically through our R&D efforts and externally by acquisition,” said Roger L. Shoemaker, Chairman & CEO of Kolene. "When the opportunity presented itself to begin discussions with Upton, the similarities between the two companies and what we provide to the customers in the industries that we serve, made this marriage ideal. 

“We are proud to carry on Upton’s strong brand and legacy as a part of Kolene Corporation as we move forward.” 

Founded in 1937, Upton Industries designs and manufactures thermal processing systems in the metals heat treating industry. Upton’s Engineered Thermal Solutions methodology has allowed the company to become a major supplier in traditional lines of heat treat equipment including box type, car bottom, lift-off and specialty furnaces utilizing either electric heating or gas-fired systems. Kolene will maintain both the Detroit headquarters location and the Roseville location, which will be home to all Kolene’s manufacturing and fabrication. By bringing the two companies together, the new Kolene will house nearly 50,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing, fabrication, and commercial processing capabilities. 

W. Scott Schilling, Kolene’s President said, “After thoroughly evaluating Upton’s capabilities, it was apparent that there are tremendous synergies between the two companies. Capitalizing on these synergies will allow Kolene to expand into applications and revenue segments where we have not historically been. Kolene will also have the ability to become more vertically integrated due to Upton’s manufacturing and fabrications capabilities, which will allow us to strengthen our overall margins. The two companies are a perfect fit.” 

In its 82nd year, Detroit-based Kolene Corp. provides custom-designed and engineered equipment, specialized chemical formulations, and processes for cleaning and conditioning metal surfaces. Kolene's products are used worldwide for casting cleaning, alloy descaling, coatings removal, engine rebuild and other automotive, industrial, and military applications.

For more information visit www.kolene.com.