Bedford Reinforced Plastics hosted State Senator Pat Stefano at its Bedford, Pennsylvania, facilities on April 23. The senator’s tour was in commemoration of the company’s 50 years of business success. Bedford Reinforced Plastics is a full-service supplier offering an extensive line of fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FRP) products and services.
Senator Stefano toured Bedford’s facilities, viewing its state-of-the-art manufacturing and fabrication processes, new technologies, and the latest developments in robotics and 3D printing. The company has invested in highly innovative production methods to serve a wide range of applications across the U.S. and global markets.
“I love to see what’s going on in our district and the great work that these companies do, especially here in the heart of Bedford where we see so much manufacturing going on and Pennsylvania-made products shipping out all across the United States and the world,” said Senator Stefano.
Senator Stefano represents the 32nd District, which includes Bedford County. The company has been part of the fabric of the community for the past five decades. Founded in 1974 by Mel Stahl, the company originally operated from a small barn with only a dozen employees and three pultrusion machines. Today, Bedford Reinforced Plastics has expanded to 200 full-time employees and more than 200,000 square feet of manufacturing and fabrication space at two facilities.
The Stahl family has maintained ownership of Bedford and integrates family-owned business values back into the community. Senator Stefano says investing in and embracing companies like this is the key to expanding Pennsylvania’s growing economy.
“I love to see what’s going on in our district and the great work that these companies do, especially here in the heart of Bedford where we see so much manufacturing going on and Pennsylvania-made products shipping out all across the United States and the world.” — Senator Stefano
“It's important that we’re keeping our manufacturing local,” added Senator Stefano. “We have the best of all worlds here, especially in Bedford County. We have a great work environment. We have the great outdoors. We have plenty of space, but we also have access to the majority of the U.S. market. Plus, our connected highways. It’s the ideal place to be. And I’m glad to see a company like this grow and flourish right here.”
Bedford Reinforced Plastics continues to build upon its success by planning for the next 50 years.
“We are ensuring the future of the company by finding the next generation of leadership and are optimistic about accomplishing unparalleled success in our industry,” said Thomas Wright, Bedford Reinforced Plastics business development director.
The company will commemorate its 50th Anniversary with a celebration event in June for employees, valued customers, vendor partners, and state and local dignitaries.
Learn more about Bedford’s history and check out a variety of projects where Bedford products have been used.