LEGEND MANUFACTURING | ALMA, MI
Legend Manufacturing, a family-owned company founded by brothers Nathan and Jason Beck, began production in 2003. The brothers were initially involved in the trailer industry as dealers and realized there was a significant disconnect between what the customer wanted and what manufacturers were willing to provide. We now provide the trailers our customers want.
As Nathan became more frustrated with this ‘disconnect’, he eventually decided to form Legend Manufacturing. He said, “Our family reputation and determination to supply the best products led us to cut our own path and begin manufacturing our own trailers.” Jason further explained, “Legend continues to prove that consumers, given the choice, prefer to have a quality product from a company they trust.”
GROWING
In 2013 Legend Manufacturing purchased a former Wal-Mart facility in Alma, Michigan in order to expand their growing enterprise. The management team repurposed and expanded nearly 150,000 square feet of space to become their new center for the production of high-quality aluminum and steel trailers. Nathan Beck remarked, “We connected with Don Schurr of Greater Gratiot Development. Don listened to our business plans, including our desire to have a positive community relationship.” The Gratiot County governmental leaders were certain that Legend was an excellent addition to the community. Recently, the owners have brought-in some new, experienced leadership to their management portfolio.
Early in 2016 the company hired a veteran President to assist the brothers continue their pattern of growth. Charles Lange comes to Legend with more than thirty years of executive level experience. He is focused on implementing new protocols which will enhance operational efficiency (lean manufacturing, etc.) and improved quality systems (such as ISO certification).
NOW
Most recently, in 2018, Legend welcomed Cody Matkin to the team as their CEO. Highly Involved in leadership roles over the last decade within the trailer industry, Cody brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Legend surrounding operations management, strategic planning, and business development. Some of his previous positions include Vice President of finance with Diamond C Trailers Mfg., and Vice President of Operations with Big Tex Trailers.
One thing is for certain, Legend is not building another “me-too+ trailer. They’re producing a superior trailer with smart and affordable price points. The company employs a team of skilled tradesmen including fabricators, welders, carpenters, electricians and assemblers. Legend continues to add workers to their existing team and a second shift is in the plans for the future. The executive team is selective in adding quality dealers to their family of business partners to assure the best outcome for their Legend trailer customers. The corporate philosophy since its inception has been encapsulated in its motto, “Buy it for Looks, Keep it for Life.”
Additional contact information: legendmfginc.com or call 989.227.0800.
