The Remarkable History of McElroy Metal

McElroy Metal has established itself as a recognized leader in the metal manufacturing industry, with a national presence of 87 locations across the United States. This remarkable journey began over 60 years ago when Thomas E. McElroy Senior, fondly known as Mr. Mac, had an idea for a new company. Let's stroll down memory lane to understand how McElroy Metal evolved into the powerhouse it is today.

Humble Beginnings

In 1962, Pelican Supply, owned by Mr. Mac, was a Shreveport distributor of industrial equipment and supplies to the local manufacturing and oil drilling industry.

In those days, raw material or coil would come from Chicago, pass through Shreveport, and end up in New Orleans for the roll forming process. Finished goods would then travel back to Shreveport and the surrounding areas. Recognizing the inefficiency and extra freight costs, Mr. Mac saw an opportunity to create a local manufacturing operation.

He sold Pelican Supply, bought a roll former, and started McElroy Metal Mill. Mr. Mac’s principles of ensuring customer satisfaction and providing quality service became the company's cornerstone. By 1964, McElroy Metal Mill’s sales had reached $435,000, equivalent to over $4 million today. Not bad for a startup!

Expansion and Growth

In 1970, Mr. Mac's son, Tem, joined the company. By 1975, Tem took over as president after Mr. Mac retired. Tem had the vision to turn McElroy Metal into a national company, and despite his father’s initial skepticism, he embarked on an ambitious expansion plan. Starting with Clinton, Illinois, as the second facility. McElroy Metal established multiple manufacturing facilities nationwide, including Georgia, Michigan, Virginia, California, Wisconsin, Texas, and Georgia.

Tem also spearheaded the launch of two new ventures: Metal Mart in 1985 and the Service Center store concept in 1993. Still today, these operations provide a strong competitive advantage, with 44 Metal Mart and 29 Service Center locations.

A New Generation of Leadership

In 1999, Ian McElroy, Mr. Mac’s grandson & Tem’s son, joined McElroy Metal. By 2007, Ian took over as president, leading the company to new heights. Under his leadership, McElroy Metal acquired Components Plus in 2009 and Architectural Building Components in 2012.

Ian also invested heavily in new facilities, plant expansions, and equipment, with over $45 million invested back into the business in the past three years.

Recognizing the need for energy-efficient buildings, Ian entered into a joint venture with Greenspan Profiles® to manufacture insulated metal panels, positioning McElroy Metal for future growth. Ian’s commitment to continuous improvement has made McElroy Metal more efficient and better equipped to serve its customers.

A Legacy of Loyalty and Success

McElroy Metal's success is not just due to family leadership but also the dedication of its employees. With 119 employees having been with the company for over 20 years and 250 for over ten years, loyalty and dedication are obvious pillars of success. And the future looks bright. Over 72% of employees hired before 2020 have at least five years of tenure at McElroy Metal.

This combination of strong leadership and loyal employees has resulted in remarkable growth. 

Looking to the Future

In 2022, Ian announced a significant change for McElroy Metal: the company became an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) organization, making employees owners. This gesture of generosity and appreciation marks a new chapter in McElroy Metal’s history, ensuring the future is as bright as the past.