Since its establishment in 1965, Warren Rupp, Inc. of Mansfield has served as one of the leading pump manufacturers in the nation. Recognized for its innovative productivity, environmentally friendly initiatives, and customer-orientated service, Warren Rupp has made headway into the 21st century.
Warren Rupp has earned numerous awards and titles, including Best Plant of 2012 by IndustryWeek magazine. Only five other companies in North America obtained this title that same year. The award criteria focused on productivity, on-time delivery, quality, service, and safety.
Vice President of Human Resources, Joe Haas, stated, “Our company is equipped with a great team that is customer-focused. Mr. Rupp, founder of Warren Rupp, was very caring and paternal and that same attitude has been maintained by our employees over the years.”
The Green Room, an environmental National Television Series, recently featured a segment on Warren Rupp, highlighting the company’s high energy efficiency and eco-friendly strategies.
“A major factor of the decision making process is based on what’s good for the environment,” explained General Manager, Scott Aiello. “We have a responsibility to the community, employees, and the surrounding environment.”
In order to maintain an organized workspace and to increase productivity, the company abides by the 5S methodology. The five primary 5S phases include sorting, set in order, systematic cleaning, standardizing, and sustaining.
One of the ways in which the company utilizes the 5S is through the organization of the of material-storage racks. These racks were previously far removed from assembly cells but are now placed about 15 feet from point of use, thereby increasing productivity. Another demonstration of enhanced productivity is the daily painting capacity, which has increased from 300 to 900 pumps.
In addition to the 5S methodology, the staff at Warren Rupp believes in the value of open communication. Christine Gfrer, Marketing Communications Manager, explained, “The lines of communication are always open. Each department has daily meetings along with all-employee monthly meetings so that the staff is made aware of what’s going on in the company.” These meetings discuss safety, quality, delivery, cost and growth.
Pumps are the main product manufactured by this company, with its signature product being the air-operated double diaphragm (AODD) pumps. Warren Rupp currently leads the AODD pump market, offering a broad range of pump sizes, models, and makes. The five brands associated with Warren Rupp include SANDPIPER, Versa-Matic, Marathon, Blagdon Pump, and Pumper Parts.
Warren Rupp also sells accessories, kits, and parts. “We want to make sure our customers are taken care of,” stated Gfrer. “And we can do that by giving them options—there are hundreds of thousands of configurations of products that clients can create to their own liking.”
Warren Rupp products are sold worldwide in over 60 countries in nearly every major trading area.
Warren Rupp was founded by Warren E. Rupp and Charles E. Young, Jr., in Mansfield, Ohio in 1965. Interestingly, Warren Rupp’s father was the co-founder of Gorman Rupp, another pump producer. Warren Rupp worked for his father at Gorman Rupp and later left to form his own company.
The number of employees averages about 200; some employees have been in the company for over 40 years.
“I appreciate the culture and how the input we give is appreciated. Everyone is treated with respect and the company promotes a work-family balance. Plus, this job keeps me on my toes because there are many aspects that cross into different areas, whether technical or business,” stated Gfrer.
