About Us
The Nation's Most Reliable Industrial Services Provider
Customer needs come first at Great Lakes Industrial. As a third-generation family-owned industrial services provider, we are guided by a clear set of principles that drive our complete commitment to responsiveness, transparency, and quality.
Our Capabilities
Manufacturing
Our manufacturing capabilities include hydraulic valves and systems, custom gaskets and other die cut products using state-of-the-art technology. No matter the scope or size of your project, GLI is here to help!
Distribution
GLI is a full-service industrial distributor offering a comprehensive line of custom molded shapes, o-rings, dynamic seals, fasteners, gaskets, and more. Supported by a large portfolio of world-class suppliers, we deliver value-add turn-key solutions.
Technology
From managed inventory solutions to custom asset tracking software, GLI has the technology you need to keep your operation running smoothly. Whatever the solution, you stay in control while simultaneously reducing inventory and production inefficiencies.
Company History
Company Founded in Milwaukee
George Henry Baumann founds Great Lakes Rubber and Supply (GLR) under the belief that products like o-rings, hose, belting, gaskets and the newly invented PTFE (DuPont Teflon) would increase in demand during the post-World War II boom. He starts the business in November with one other employee in a 500-square-feet location at 735 N. Jackson St. in downtown Milwaukee.
Rapid Expansion
Under George’s leadership, the company relocates to 3118 N. Teutonia Ave. in Milwaukee, doubling the size of its facility. Around the same time, GLR partners with Parker Hannifin to become an authorized distributor of its o-rings, seals, hose and fittings product lines. This relationship with both Parker’s EMG and FCG divisions would continue to grow for the next 60+ years.
Relocation and Further Expansion
To meet a growing customer base and product line, GLR relocates to its current Milwaukee headquarters at 6150 N. Flint Rd., expanding its facility to 25,000-square-feet. The expansion allows GLR to invest in gasket manufacturing and hydraulic assembly equipment.
Second Generation Assumes Leadership
Thomas Baumann, George’s son, becomes President and expands GLR’s Illinois presence by acquiring CC Sales, a mother-daughter distributor serving the Rockford area.
