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Our History
Hytrol has a rich history. It spans several decades and is filled with innovations and accolades. However, none of our accomplishments happen without the “best people” in the industry, which our founder knew all too well. We invite you to take a look back at the legacy he created and one we build upon now and into the future.
The First Conveyor
At the request of a friend, Tom Loberg creates his first conveyor, “Old No.1.” It is designed to carry bags of seed. Tom’s business, Hydro-Controls, begins manufacturing conveyors geared toward the seed, feed, and grain industries.
The Name Change
Hydro-Controls becomes Hytrol Conveyor Company. With a handshake and a promise, Seedburo Equipment Company in Chicago becomes the first integration partner.
Conveyor Breakfast
Hytrol celebrates 10 years in business. Naturally, employees are served a celebratory breakfast on conveyors.
Hey there, Sam!
Tom Loberg and Sam Leone develop Hytrol’s business concept: Design, Pricing, Availability, and Service (DPAS). This concept revolves around designing custom conveyors with standard parts, pricing them competitively and building them faster than anyone else with exceptional customer service.
A Network and a Promise
Hytrol officially hires Sam Leone. Sam establishes the way Hytrol goes to market, the Integration Partner Network.
Welcome Home
Hytrol relocates to Jonesboro, Arkansas, building a new 26,000 square feet facility. Hytrol hires Ralph Pocobello who manages Hytrol’s production area during its formative years, laying the groundwork for future decades of growth.
More Than a “Numbers Guy”
Hytrol hires Phil Jones as our first CPA. Phil proves to be essential for Hytrol’s financial stability.
Celebrating Growth
Hytrol hosts the 1972 Convention, celebrating 25 years in business. The strong trust between Hytrol and distributors leads to success all around.
New Product Launches
Hytrol unveils pallet accumulating, ACS accumulating conveyor, and chain roller units.
No Pressure, Just Great Conveyors
Hytrol introduces its first zero pressure accumulation conveyor.
Big Shoes To Fill
Hytrol introduces its first sliding shoe sortation conveyor. The Jonesboro facility is now over 420,000 square feet with an expanded production area, health club, and medical clinic.
So Many Ideas We Needed a Building to Hold Them
The Hytrol Technology Center is constructed in Jonesboro. The Technology Center is our central hub for new innovations and creations.
Making 50 Years Look EZ
Hytrol introduces EZLogic®, revolutionizing the industry. Hytrol also celebrates 50 years in business and Tom Loberg’s 80th birthday. At the 1997 convention, Tom is honored on stage along with Sam Leone and Ralph Pocobello.
True Pros in the Business
Hytrol introduces the ProSort line of high-speed sortation conveyors.
A Milestone in the New Millennium
Hytrol reaches $100 million in sales.
Export Experts
Hytrol receives an “Export Achievement Award” from the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Thank You, Mr. President
Hytrol receives the President’s “E” Certificate for Exports by President George W. Bush.
It’s Electric!
Hytrol introduces E24™, the revolutionary line of 24-volt conveyors and accessories.
Born on the First of July
Hytrol founds and celebrates Loberg Day to honor Tom’s contributions to the employees of Hytrol and the community.
Upward and Onward
Hytrol completes a $1.5 million renovation to the Technology Center to include a two-story conveyor showcase.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators
The Hytrol Materials Handling Lab opens at Arkansas State University for mechanical and electrical engineering students.
New Town, Same Great People
Hytrol expands operations to Fort Smith, Arkansas, adding over 250 employees by the end of the year.
75 Years Together
Hytrol celebrates 75 years in business with an all-employee picnic and Integration Partner Convention with the theme of “Together” honoring the employees and partnerships that make Hytrol a success.
We Have the Best People
Hytrol is named the Arkansas Business of the Year for 2022
Here We Grow Again
Hytrol opens its Warehouse Distribution Center in Jonesboro.
