1915
Founded by George E. Evans in Moline, Illinois. Began as a sheet metal fabrication company serving the rapidly growing automotive industry. George Evans intentionally located the business along the railroad to ensure reliable steel deliveries, a strategic decision that influenced the company’s long-term success.
1915–1929
Manufactured sheet metal products for Midwest manufacturers. Built a reputation for quality workmanship and dependable production. Continued investing in manufacturing capabilities as industrial demand increased.
1930s
Developed and manufactured the company’s first TOROIDAL® steel cable reels. Originally designed to ship: telephone cable and electrical transmission cable. This became the defining product line for the company.
1930s–1940s
Increased production of steel reels as utility and telecommunications infrastructure expanded. Established long-term relationships within the electrical industry. Continued operations throughout World War II while supporting industrial manufacturing.
1950s–1960s
Steel reels became widely used throughout: electrical utilities, telephone companies, and cable manufacturers. Continued refining reel designs and manufacturing processes.
1961
TOROIDAL® is a registered trademark (Registration #735895) owned by George Evans Corporation. The trademark was filed on 02 Oct 1961.
1970s
TOROIDAL® reels became recognized throughout North America. Continued serving the wire and cable industry with reusable steel reels designed for durability.
1980s
Manufacturing evolved alongside: larger power cable, communications cable, specialty industrial cable. Expanded manufacturing capabilities to meet changing customer needs.
1990s
Supported customers moving from traditional copper products into fiber optic applications. Continued investment in production equipment and manufacturing processes.
2000s
Continued improving: welding, material handling, manufacturing efficiency. Expanded capabilities while remaining focused on steel reel manufacturing.
October 2020
The George Evans Corporation acquired Matcon Manufacturing in Cordova, Illinois. Matcon continued operating from its Cordova facility. Acquisition expanded GEC into: returnable packaging, dunnage systems, and additional powder coating capabilities. The acquisition diversified the company’s manufacturing portfolio while keeping both workforces intact.
2020–Present
Moline Headquarters
Cordova Facility
2025
Celebrated 110 years of continuous manufacturing. Remains a fourth-generation, family-owned and women-owned manufacturing company serving wire & cable and material handling markets.
We’re a 110-year-old, USA-based manufacturing company specializing in high-quality reels and advanced material-handling solutions dedicated to help customers safely and efficiently store, transport, and manage their products while improving operational performance.
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