About Us

HISTORY BEHIND THE “MALCO” BRAND

Malco Products, SBC, got its start in 1950 when Mark W. Keymer, a young steel supply salesman, decided to manufacture and market a pipe crimper he had invented for installing the “new” sheet metal ductwork used in forced air heating systems. Today, the legacy of that exciting start-up company lives on and the early Malco tools have since been joined by hundreds of other specialty products.

Malco is dedicated to producing innovative, dependable, and high-performance hand tools at our corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility in Annandale, Minnesota.
This dedication to craftsmanship is why Malco is one of the nation’s leading solution developers and manufacturers of “tools of the trade” for HVAC (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning), exterior remodeling, and fence and rail installation professionals.

Malco continues building its success around service to the trades and a steady stream of new and exciting labor-saving tool designs that address an ever-changing industry landscape and respond to emerging market needs for new specializations and more customized products and services for the end-user. Our employee-owners are committed to producing tools of lasting quality and performance that promote on-the-job safety and health for hands-on pros who have come to rely on the trusted Malco brand.

Founder Mark Keymer
1950 | Malco is born!

The origin of the Malco name came from combining Mark’s first name and the first name of an early associate named Al, who owned the garage where initial operations began. Malco stood for “Mark and Al’s Company.”

Malco products red logo

1954

Vintage image of Malco owners Mark and his wife Dorothy

Operations move from Al’s garage to Mark’s basement, with Al leaving the company. Malco’s first business office consisted of the kitchen table, a shoebox filing system, and a manual typewriter. With advertisements in the American Artisan and Snips Magazine to generate national business, Mark had help from his wife Dorothy to keep the books and proceeded to hire his first employee and independent sales rep.

Vintage Cartoon of two Malco workers talking about Malco holders

The first one-page Malco catalog featured a 5-Blade Crimper, Hand Seamer, Scratch Awls, and other tools.

Old Malco product and pricing sheet

1962

The 60s were comprised of continued company growth, personally training sales reps, new product development/updates, and ramping up trade show attendance.

Malco’s sales rep force, an essential link to wholesale distribution, grows to provide national coverage. Mark started hosting educational “Tool School” sessions to enhance product knowledge and high customer service standards.

 

Vintage image of Malco owner Mark hosting educational Tool School sessions to enhance product knowledge and high customer service standards.

To further enhance user efficiency and control, sleek vinyl grips were added to existing compound leverage tools.

Malco maintains a strong industry presence and image at key trade shows.

 

Vintage image of Malco employees at key trade shows.

1970
1970

The 70s included the big move to Annandale, MN, which is where the current U.S. Malco headquarters is located, as well as entering a new product market, releasing Zip-in® Screws, and experiencing a shift in leadership.

1971

Punch press operations move from Minneapolis to Annandale, MN.

view of the front Malco's headquarters in the 1970's

1973

The move to Annandale is complete, and Mark’s son Gerry is named vice president.

1976
1976

The industry-leading Zip-in® Screws are introduced into the marketplace.

1978

Mark Keymer retires as president with his son Gerry taking leadership.

Gerry Keymer, who took leadership role after his father retires as president

Order entry function is online, which allowed for instantaneous processing and computer-generated pick tickets for same or next-day shipping.

Online order entry, which allowed for instantaneous processing and computer-generated pick tickets for same or next-day shipping.

1980s

The 80s brought big changes to Malco’s internal processes and packaging, which streamlined plant operations and enhanced distributor merchandising efforts.

1980

Malco uses pegboard templates to promote full line displays and a self-service concept.

 

Pegboard templates that Malco used to promote full line displays and a self-service concept.

Vintage image of two Malco employees shaking hands

1987

A new fax machine is installed in the office to function 24/7, in efforts to speed communications and improve customer service.

1988
1988

The first skin carding line begins operation in the Packaging Department. The peggable packaging was designed to enhance product visibility, enabling wholesale distributors to have more effective merchandising.

1989

The FasGroov® system is first introduced to the HVAC market and is a huge success

A compact, portable exhibit is available for reps to use at trade shows and special events, which provide an effective and professional presentation of Malco products.

 

A compact, portable exhibit available for reps to use at trade shows and special events, which provide an effective and professional presentation of Malco products.

 

Malco invests in internal systems and in-house educational programs on Manufacturing Resource Planning, Just-In-Time Production System, and Statistical Process Control.

 

Students at a Malco in-house educational program on Manufacturing Resource Planning, Just-In-Time Production System, and Statistical Process Control

1990s

Many big milestones occurred in the 90s, with Malco revolutionizing their product development and purchasing process, releasing many new tools, going online, and shifting ownership.

1990

A new CAD/CAM computer system transforms designs into small quantities of manufactured products in a fraction of the time compared to large scale production. This laid the groundwork for an efficient product development process to be used for years to come.

 

New CAD/CAM computer system that transforms designs into small quantities of manufactured products in a fraction of the time compared to large scale production.

1991

Malco implements Uniform Product Codes (UPC) on individual sale items to allow for timely and accessible inventory status reports, streamlined shipping/receiving operations, and reduced clerical errors. Barcoding was no longer a wave of the future; it was here to stay.

 

The Uniform Product Code (UPC) allows for timely and accessible inventory status reports, streamlined shipping/receiving operations, and reduced clerical errors.

 

The introduction of lightweight Andy “Combination” Snips, as well as C4 and C5 Crimpers.

1992

Updated AVs® line of aviation snips are released, revamping Malco’s existing line.

All specialty hand tools which feature a compound leverage design now also feature new handle springs that assure longer, uninterrupted service life.

Malco's AVs aviation snips.

1995

The 20-in. Sheet Metal Hole Cutter is released.

The Malco 20 Inch Sheet Metal Hole Cutter

1996–97

A formal Product Development Process results in a record number of new product introductions. For one 14-month period from March 1996 to May 1997, more than one product was introduced per month. New releases at the time include Malco’s Offset Pipe Crimper, 9-in Seamer, and J-Channel Cutter, to name a few.

In 1997, the Malco website launched in the height of the World Wide Web.

 

The first ever Malco Website.

1998

Demand for Max2000® Classic Aviation Snips creates waiting lists at dealers. It was a highly anticipated solution in response to widespread dissatisfaction with the aviation snip category at the time. The BEAST Shingle Remover, One Inch Notcher, and Sider® tool are also released.

 

The Max2000 Classic Aviation Snip

Vintage ad for The Beast Shingle Remover

1999

On the eve of Malco’s 50th anniversary, Gerry Keymer sells his share of the company to begin the process of transferring ownership of Malco to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

Malco ESOP logo

2000-2009

Malco entered the 21st century with breakthrough innovation and student recognition. This decade features the release of the original TurboShear® drill attachment that sparked the development of other power-assisted tools, the creation of ergonomic Redline® Handles, the introduction of the “Head of the Class” Program, and much more.

2000

The 5-in. Seamer is released, as well as a Flex Duct Shear and various Magnetic Sweeps.

2001

Founder Mark Keymer passes away, but his legacy of innovation, efficiency, and quality live on through his family and employee-owners.

Redesigned 12- and 14-in. Aluminum Andy Snips and Gutter Outlet Punches are released.

2003

Malco introduces the original TurboShear® drill attachment, which revolutionized the HVAC market and became an instant trade pro favorite.

 

The Malco TurboShear drill attachment

2004

With the addition of metal brackets for simplified one-handed use and hardened carbon steel blades that offer up to 18-gauge steel cutting capacity, the TurboShear® Heavy Duty Sheet Metal Cutting Tool Attachment is born.

 

The TurboShear heavy duty sheet metal cutting tool.

 

Malco releases tools with Redline® Handles, which offer non-slip handle grip contours, spring handle actuation, and a thumb-operated handle latch for a natural fit and one-handed operation. These comfortable, ergonomic handles help to prevent user discomfort, fatigue, and risk of injury, making jobs safer and easier to complete than ever before.

 

A tool equipped with the Redline Handles.

2005

Malco’s “Head of the Class” Program is first introduced to recognize and reward outstanding trade school graduates for their commitment and hard work.

Student and teacher holding the Head of the Class Program certificate

2007

Mark Keymer was inducted into the Minnesota Inventors Hall of Fame.

Minnesota Inventors Hall of Fame Logo

2010-2019

This recent decade encompassed a new market venture, exciting product updates/releases, enhanced sustainability initiatives, majority employee ownership, company awards, and significant employee anniversaries.

An angled view of the SEMA Trophy. A blue ribbon with the SEMA logo

2010

Malco enters the automotive market, which presented opportunities for specialty tools that cut, prep, repair, and weld autobody door panels and surfaces.

2012

Malco introduces its first power-assisted metal duct crimper drill attachment called the TurboCrimper®.

The Malco TurboCrimper

2014

Malco sustainability efforts continue with using recycled PET plastic vs. PVC for clamshell packaging, as well as recyclable paper and no adhesive, so that the plastic and paper cleanly separate for recycling. Our employees are utilizing less fax and more emails for orders. Virtually all non-organic waste and scrap generated at the Annandale plant is recycled, in addition to fluorescent lighting being replaced with energy-efficient and longer-lasting LED lighting.

Malco Going Green logo

2015

A 360° rotating head and adjustable drill clamp are integrated into various power-assisted tools. The clamp collar allows the head to be set in any position for ideal tool clearance when navigating profiles or to facilitate easy material flow.

The Malco 360 degree rotating head and adjustable drill clamp

Malco’s ESOP purchases majority ownership, promoting greater company transparency among employee-owners. Malco operates open book financials so that everyone knows where the company stands, where the company wants to be, and what everyone needs to do to meet their goals.

The entire Malco team on a grass field.

2016

Malco introduces a lightweight and powerful impact driver attachment called the TurboCrimper® Impact. Based on actual field trials, the C5A2 model operates 78% faster than a manual sheet metal crimper. The Writable Measuring Tape with Magnetic Tip, 4IN1 Nut Driver, and first-of-its-kind Conformable Sander are also released this year.

 

The Malco TurboCrimper Impact

2017

Malco introduces an exclusive, dual-sided 1/4 in. and 5/16 in. C-RHEX® Cleanable, Reversible Magnetic Hex Driver with 2 in. length that rapidly becomes a best-selling tool in the HVAC market.

 

Malco, dual-sided 1/4 in. and 5/16 inch C-RHEX.

 

Malco is awarded as an Outstanding Disability Employer by the Minnesota Organization for Habilitation and Rehabilitation and is named the High Economic Vitality Business of the Year by the Wright County Minnesota Economic Development Partnership.

 

Malco Trade-Pro of the year contest logo

 

The Trade-Pro of the Year award began in 2017 as a way for Malco to shine some much-deserved light and recognition on hard-working HVAC professionals who represent the industry in the best possible way.

2018-2019
  • As a result of overwhelming demand, Malco introduces three additional lengths to the 1/4 in. and 5/16 in. C-RHEX® lineup.
  • The Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal awards Malco the 2018 Medium Manufacturer of the Year Award.
  • We were named a Top Workplace by the Star Tribune in 2018 and 2019.

StarTribune Top Workplaces

Malco is awarded the 2018 Meritorious Achievement Award in Occupational Safety by the Minnesota Safety Council for the 11th time since 2004.

Malco Products headquarters.

 

2020

Malco celebrates their many years of innovation and growth during their 70th year anniversary. Malco gained various awards during this year: ACHR News 2020 Dealer Design Awards for Malco’s C-RHEX®, 2020 All-Star Company by the Great Game of Business®, and Outstanding Achievement Award from the Minnesota Safety Council. In addition, Malco introduced the Jeannette Rieger Borer Scholarship, named after one of their long-term associates who served many years on the local towns Annandale School Board.

The official logo commemorating Malco Products' 70th anniversary.

Malco continues to innovate its popular C-Rhex products by introducing a slimmer head.

All four sizes of Malco's C-RHEX products shown side by side with the HEX Driver Socket detached

2021

Malco’s new president Rich Benninghoff assumes the role of President, following the retirement announcement of Mardon Quandt, who has served as Malco’s President since 2013.

Headshot of Rich Benninghoff, Malco CEO
Malco Products President, Rich Benninghoff

RECOGNITION AND AWARDS

Malco Products is always honored to receive recognition and awards. Being recognized makes us proud of our team’s hard work, and it’s the knowledge that our customers are happy and satisfied with our products that gives us the most gratification. Some of the recent honors that we have received include:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


TRADEMARKED PRODUCTS

(Click logo to learn more)

 

 


ABOUT OUR OPERATIONS

We are proud of our commitment to American manufacturing and to the products we produce at our plant in Annandale, Minnesota. You can rest assured that any Malco tools marked with the “Made in the USA” label meet the rigorous standard for being labeled as such.

You will notice that a select number of the products we sell are manufactured outside of the United States. Although these products are not made in the U.S., you can rest assured that the Malco team designed the product to our exacting standards, and it is being manufactured by trusted partners who meet our rigorous and high standards of quality.

 


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • How many of your products are made in the USA?

    A majority of the hand tools we offer are made in America.

    We are always looking to add new products for the HVAC, building and construction trades to our portfolio, so if you have a product idea, we hope you’ll let us know! You can submit ideas here.

  • What is Malco’s commitment to American manufacturing?

    We manufacture as many products as we can at our facility in Annandale, Minnesota with our team of 160 associates on two shifts. Additionally, several of the products we offer are made in the USA by other American manufacturers.

    We have made significant investments into our Annandale facility, as we plan to keep production based here for many decades to come.

    We are also very proud to be an employee-owned Specific Benefit Corporation (SBC), a legal designation that indicates that a specific social benefit — employee ownership, keeping jobs local and strengthening communities — is the primary driver of Malco’s business decisions.

  • Why do you make some of your products overseas/Why don't some of your products have the Made in the USA label?

    The short answer is because we don’t have the in-house capabilities to produce those products at the highest standard of quality and at the volume we require.

    We vet and select our international manufacturing partners closely to ensure that the products coming off the line internationally meet our rigorous standards – and the standards of the trade pros who use them day in and day out.