Known as the original manufacturer of the fiberglass body for the iconic Corvette, MFG Companies prides itself as an innovative, family-owned enterprise that spans four generations of the Morrison family. Founded in 1948 by entrepreneur Robert S. Morrison, the company is headquartered in Ashtabula, Ohio, and remains one of the largest employers in the region.
MFG first gained national attention in 1953 when Morrison convinced General Motors to hire MFG to produce all fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) body parts for the new Chevrolet Corvette. This watershed event established MFG as a pioneer and changed MFG’s trajectory leading to other “firsts” – FRP boats, high volume truck and tractor components, bakery trays, concrete forms and satellite dishes.
An astute businessman, Morrison balanced profitability with establishing culture that embraces the core values of honesty, integrity, hard work, respect, innovation and commitment to customer service. The Morrison family also established a profit-sharing bonus system for all MFG employees.
Those core values have helped MFG thrive under the leadership of Morrison’s son, Richard, who took over as CEO in 1987. During his tenure, MFG expanded to 13 locations in North America which include manufacturing plants; a research, development and testing laboratory in Ashtabula; a dedicated engineering services group in Portland; and a wind blade service center in Gainesville, Texas.
Despite its substantial growth, the Morrison family takes great pride in maintaining a positive “family environment” at work, and creating job satisfaction for all.
Over the last three generations, famly members have remained an integral part of MFG, working at all levels of the company. Those who have served at managing and VP levels include: Garth Warner, Doug Morrison, Glenn Warner, Louise Morrison, Hilary Morrison, Bethany Warner, and Alec Raffa, who continues to serve as MFG’s VP of High Pressure Entities. The company has begun to share ownership with the fourth generation of the Morrison family. Through the MFG foundation, MFG continues to support its surrounding communities.