Klein Plating Works was founded on August 15th, 1915 by brothers Frank and Oscar Klein. The company originally held the name Ferris Chemical Company and was located at 654 West 25th Street, Erie, PA.
In January of 1920, Frank Klein became the principle owner and changed the name to Erie Gold & Silver Plating Company. The company supplied polished and nickel plated components to the hospital and stove manufacturing industries. The company also expanded in the restoration and plating of antiques, lamps, flatware, and religious goods.
In June of 1933, owners Frank Klein along with his son Richard changed the name once again to what the company is still known as today; Klein Plating Works.
During the turmoil of World War II, the company refocused its plating expertise to help aid in the war effort. The precious metal plating of contacts and other electrical components paved the way for the company to expand into new industrial sectors such as the electronics market.
On January 8th, 1941, owner Frank Klein retires leaving his interest in the company with his wife Francis. Francis Klein enters into a partnership with her son Richard while still doing business under the fictitious name of Klein Plating Works.
On November 13th, 1943, Frank Klein passes away at age 64.
Francis Klein retires from the company and gives her interest to her children. The company enters into a new partnership split between the eight children of Frank and Francis Klein. Richard Klein remains the principle owner and partner of the operations.
September 1st, 1959 future owner and President Larrie Dudenhoeffer (Richard Klein's nephew) begins working for the company.
The company secured the account of Micro Devices. This new customer changed the focus and abilities of Klein Plating to large volume,
Klein Plating Works grew over the past decade aided by the sales and quality efforts spearheaded by Mr. Dudenhoeffer. In 1973, the company moved to its present location of 2020 Greengarden Road, Erie, PA. A brand new 110 ft. long x 80 ft. wide facility was built here.
The company's partners decide to forgo their interests in the partnership and
In December of 1981, Richard Klein passes away leaving Larrie Dudenhoeffer the majority shareholder of KPW, Inc. Larrie now became the third-generation owner of the family run business.
On August 24th, 1995, Klein Plating's shareholders elected to transition the company to an S-corporation which it remains today.
Klein Plating completes its fourth and final building addition adding new facilities that increase the total plant square footage to 25,000. The company at this point is essentially land locked.
Joe Dudenhoeffer begins working for the company starting in the custom finishing department.
Klein Plating became certified to ISO 9000 Quality standards on June 13th, 1998 and has maintained it ever since.
On may 11th, 2003, Klein Plating suffers a devastating fire resulting in over $1 million in damages and halts operations for over three months. The company tries to rebuild.
In December of 2006, Joe Dudenhoeffer, then acting Sales Manager, takes over as President of the company.
Klein Plating purchases the western adjacent property, 1624 West 21st Street. This acquisition allows the company the room for future expansion as needed.
In June of 2013, Joe Dudenhoeffer acquired all of the company's stock and became the fourth generation family owner. He remained President of the company as well as assuming
Klein Plating Works, Inc. celebrated its 100th year in business, a feat that very few businesses accomplish. The company continues to prosper and grow as it meets the challenges of the future.
History of Klein Plating Works in Erie, PA
Klein Plating Works, Inc. has provided quality metal finishing services for over 100 years with its founding in 1915. Throughout the last 100 years, Klein Plating has consistently grown to become a prominent metal plating operation located in Erie, Pennsylvania that globally serves the metal finishing needs of its customers. The company is founded on the principles of supplying quality metal finishes in a timely and cost-effective manner to ensure its customers' success.
We find Klein Plating to be on the Top Tier of Metal Finishing for Silver in the Country. Always on time, excellent product & an office staff that is courteous and responsive. 