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Company

1920's & 1930's

Charles Irwin, a 50-year-old former lumberjack who had lost a leg in an accident, started Grand Rapids Scale Company selling wagon scales in 1922. Charles’ son, Claude Irwin, joined the business just seven years after its opening. Upon Charles’ passing in 1939, the business was left to Claude.

1940's & 1950's

Claude built a new facility on Division Avenue in Grand Rapids and hired his nephew, Ed Fahnenstiel. In 1943, at the age of 12, Claude’s son, Denny Irwin, became involved with the company. Through this time the business continued to grow through the efforts of these gentlemen and their main supplier, Fairbanks Scales.

1960's & 1970's

Claude sold the business to Ed and Denny as equal partners when he retired. The pair moved the business to the current headquarter location on Stafford Ave. in Wyoming, Michigan. Ed was known as the “Scale Man” and Denny was the “Finance Guy.” In a history of the company, Denny attributed their success to paying bills on time, stocking inventory, loyalty to suppliers, and corporate integrity.

1980's & 1990's

These years brought technological advancements and the emergence of “Quality” standards. Denny and Ed both passed away, leaving the business to Ed’s daughter, Marisa Fahnenstiel, who joined the business in 1991 as CEO, supported by General Manager, Ken Baas. Dick Spruit (Marisa’s husband), assumed the position of CEO in 1993. In 1996, Grand Rapids Scale Co. became the first distributor of weighing equipment in Michigan to be ISO 9000 registered. In 1998, the Bay City branch was constructed and a facility was bought to create the Metro Detroit operations.

Early 2000's

Over the years, the company was known for creating custom engineered solutions for business’ needs. In 2006, Grand Rapids Scale Co. became accredited to the standards of ISO 17025 by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA), the premier accrediting body. In 2010, Grand Rapids Scale constructed an environmentally-controlled metrology lab in Grand Rapids. That 2,000-square foot facility now serves as the nerve center for the continuously expanding calibration business.

2010's - Present

In 2012, Megan Spruit joined the company as the fifth generation of the founding family. In 2013, Grand Rapids Scale Co. became Grand Rapids Metrology, a more inclusive name to fairly represent our capabilities. In 2016, Grand Rapids Metrology acquired the Michigan operations of Kanawha Scales and Systems, doubling its presence on the east side of the state. GRM continues to grow as our 100 year anniversary quickly approaches!

About
About Us

Grand Rapids Metrology comes from humble beginnings. Originally founded in 1922, it started as a small company selling wagon scales in Grand Rapids. Since then, Grand Rapids Metrology has evolved into the largest provider of measurement services in Michigan with service locations in Grand Rapids, Benton Harbor, Bay City, Battle Creek, and Metro Detroit. Our growth and success for almost 100 years of business is attributed to five generations of dedicated family management and hard-working employees.

What People Are Saying

The people at Grand Rapids Metrology are great to work with, first and foremost. Their service is right up there with the best. Customer service is top notch. They always work their best to serve our needs, whether it’s an emergency repair or calibration. I wish all the companies I use had the same quality of service as Grand Rapids Metrology.

KAREN CLAY, QUALITY MANAGER CASCADE ENGINEERING

I have found Grand Rapids Metrology to be reliable, efficient, and willing to go the extra steps required for our ISO-rated plant. I have no hesitation in recommending the services of Grand Rapids Metrology and plan on maintaining them as our scale contractor.

Mike Lampen, E & I Team Leader Sun Chemical

What I like most about Grand Rapids Metrology is the people. Everyone I’ve ever been in contact with at Grand Rapids Metrology has been pleasant and professional. The customer service is second to none. They have always been accommodating to my scale and calibration needs and requests.

Bill Knisley, Lab Engineer and Radiation Protection Supervisor ETO Magnetic Corp.

Values
Our Values

Exceed

expectations every day

Inspire

positive attitudes and family values

Collaborate

through shared knowledge

Innovate

for creative solutions

Embrace

and drive change

Contact Us! 800.348.5701

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