Enough Clutches To Stretch Around the World
It was a momentous occasion at one of the pillars of the Britton community early this week. Horton, Inc. celebrated a significant milestone with the making of their 10 millionth clutch on Tuesday. Management and various dignitaries were on hand to join in the celebration.
Founded in 1951, Horton originally focused on manufacturing industrial clutches. Over the years, the company has become global in scale and branched out greatly in their products. Horton first opened its plant in Britton in 1974 with a 14,000 square foot building and three employees. The Britton plant now employs hundreds of people and has locations not only across the United States, but across the world.
Horton, Inc., President and CEO Cordell Dietz as well as the daughters of Hugh Schilling, Horton’s founder, Terry Gilberstadt and Lynn Brown, helped build the iconic 10 millionth clutch right on their mainline. The family paused for a special photo opportunity after the clutch was complete.
In a ceremony after, Dietz spoke about just how far the company has come. He explained that their clutches, which reduce noise and save fuel, have resulted in around $200 billion in fuel savings. Dietz also discussed the value that Horton has given back to the community through their employees as well as projects and programs.
Director of Manufacturing Jim Boyko added that if you put all the clutches Horton has manufactured end to end and stacked them together, they would stretch all the way around the world.
Both Gilberstadt, who is the company’s Vice Chairman and a shareholder, and Brown, a Board Member and Shareholder, congratulated the employees on their accomplishments.
“It is a meaningful occasion for the family,” said Gilberstadt. “It’s unbelievable all the work that goes into this place. We are truly appreciative for all you do.”
Brown added, “Congratulations on nearly 50 years here in Britton. It’s great to see such wonderful growth.”
Horton marking its 10 millionth clutch comes almost exactly a year after the company opened its new Offroad Center. This 55,000 square foot building was under construction since 2021 and houses the means to build products for industries like mining, construction, and agriculture.
