DENVER (Jan. 21, 2011) — Gates Corp. is marking its 100th anniversary with celebrations at its global facilities.
The maker of automotive and industrial belts and hoses began life in 1911 when Charles Gates Sr. bought the Colorado Tire and Leather Co., a small shop in Denver. The firm later became Gates Rubber Co., and grew into one of the giants of the industry, with operations in 29 countries around the world.
Today Gates is owned by Tomkins Ltd., which itself was purchased last year for about $5 billion by Onex Corp. and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board.
Jim Nicol, chairman of Gates and CEO of Tomkins, said the company's “customer service and innovation have been the hallmarks of Gates in our first 100 years. As our company expands globally, these hallmarks of customer service and innovation continue to enhance the value of the Gates brand. We are delighted to celebrate this milestone—and a legacy few companies ever realize—with our employees and customers around the world, and we look forward to even greater success over our next 100 years.”
Gates said more than 100 of its manufacturing, distribution, technical and sales/service facilities around the world will celebrate the anniversary with events and activities throughout the year.
More information about Gates and its global centennial events is available on its website.