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History

From Humble Beginnings...

More than seventy years ago, on April 1, 1949, Allen and Margaret Ray founded Ray Products. Things are a bit different now than they were in the beginning when Allen and Margaret were producing largely one product – plastic baby bassinets.

One of the most notable changes in Ray Products’ history is the growth of the company. Today, our company’s current headquarters is significantly larger than our original office, and not only is the thermoforming equipment different but so are the end products. Backed by a team of hard-working, diligent, and intuitive employees, Ray Products is able to manufacture thermoforming solutions for several industries including, everything from medical device enclosures to outdoor weatherable covers and all industries in between.

Allen and Margaret Ray found Ray Products in a 1,000 sq. ft. warehouse at 703 S. Palm in Alhambra, originally as a custom fabrication shop. They purchase the company's first thermoforming machine in 1952.

Ray Products outgrows its Alhambra location and moves to a new 18,000 square foot facility in El Monte, CA. By this time, Ray Products is manufacturing custom enclosures for the early computer industry, which requires the development of new and improved techniques for forming, trimming and assembly.

After joining the company as controller in 1965, Bruce Ray purchases the company from his parents in 1975 and succeeds his father as president. In 1983 the company sets up an off-site paint facility to offer high quality painting and silk-screening services to its customers.

In August of 1995, Ray Products moves into a 48,000 square foot facility in Ontario, CA. The new facility substantially increases capacity, improves the flow of production and increases efficiency by allowing both manufacturing and finishing operations to happen under one roof.

Brian Ray takes over the company from his father, Bruce, in 1997, representing the 3rd generation of family ownership for Ray Products.

Ray Products makes substantial investments in offering its customers the latest in thermoforming equipment, including large-part thermoforming in 2005, 6-axis fully-robotic trimming in 2007 and the largest 10' x 18' pressure-forming capabilities on the west coast in 2012.

One thing that has not changed is our ties to the original ownership. In its third-generation now, Ray Products continues to be led by Brian Ray, Allen, and Margaret’s grandson. Another constant that has prevailed through the years is Ray Products’ commitment to delivering the highest quality custom plastic parts available.

At Ray Products, we have always believed in using the best possible technology. Even the equipment used by Allen and Margaret’s bassinet-making business in the 1950s was best-in-class. We take pride in continuing to be a cutting-edge manufacturer, investing millions in equipment that allows us to do more for our customers. Our investment in some of the most advanced fully robotic trimmers available and our ability to offer the largest thermoforming capabilities on the West Coast are just a few examples of this commitment.

The customers of Ray Products know that they will get straight and honest answers. For more than 70 years, Ray Products has built a reputation we are genuinely proud of, and we are not stopping anytime soon.

How Can Ray Products Help You Today?