August 13, 2008
Auto Truck Group Celebrates 90th Anniversary
BENSENVILLE, IL – Auto Truck Group is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year.
On Mar. 28, 1918, Hervey R. Dailey founded the company, then known as Auto Truck Steel Body. Hervey’s original business plan is still in effect today, “… to manufacturer, buy, sell, and deal in and with all kind of bodies made of steel and other material.” The first 10 years had their ups and downs. Then on Mar. 9, 1928, Eugene James “Don” Dondlinger purchased the company.
Dondlinger led the company until his passing in 1962 when his son, Gene, took over the family business. Through the 60s, 70s, and 80s, Gene’s leadership brought on a new plant, new customers and new products. In 1988 Gene retired after 54 years of service at Auto Truck.
Gene’s son Jim, a third generation Dondlinger, became the leader of Auto Truck and the tradition continued. When the business first began there was just a single location in Chicago, Ill.
Now, Auto Truck Group has five locations across the United States to meet their customers’ needs. Recently, their Fort Wayne, Ind., and Louisville, Ky., facilities have gone through major expansions. In December 2008, Auto Truck’s Bensenville headquarters and flagship shop will be moving to a state-of-the-art facility in Bartlett, Ill.
“I am very excited about the future. Our new headquarters will bring us tremendous opportunities,” said Jim Dondlinger. While many things have changed, one key thing has not, he said. “We’re honest and fair with our customers and our employees. Our success would not be possible without them.”
For more information about Auto Truck Group, visit www.autotruck.com.