In September of 1945, RBM Company was founded on the principles of selling quality petroleum equipment and providing innovative services for oil bulk plants, service station operators and industrial users. Co-founders George W. Reed, Albert W. Bruce, and S.R. “Pete” Montgomery opened RBM’s first facility at 423 Depot Street in Knoxville, Tennessee.
As a result of steady growth and expanded services, RBM moved to a larger facility in
September of 1958. The company experienced continued growth over the next decade and moved into its current facility at 2700 Texas Avenue in 1968.
Today, the company and its 20 employees continue to operate at the Texas Avenue facility, which features acres of storage and working area. With more than 70 years of industry experience, RBM remains a leading petroleum equipment distributor, from bulk fueling terminals to the retail fueling market. The distributor also specializes in material handling equipment, industrial equipment and lubrication equipment.
Susan Maples, Director of Operations and daughter of founder Albert Bruce, remembers growing up with OPW and reflects on the important role that the partnership has played in RBM’s success.
“OPW has always been at the heart of our business as we’ve carried OPW products ever since my Dad started RBM Company in 1945. It’s truly been a great partnership as OPW has always evolved to meet the changing needs of our customers. Growing up, we always knew OPW as Ohio Pattern Works so that history was instilled in us from early on. It’s an honor to take part in this 125th Anniversary celebration and we’re looking forward to many more years of this rewarding partnership.”
Click here to learn more about RBM Company and join the #OPW125 celebration on our125th Anniversary website!