When Douglas L. Houck founded DLH Industries Inc. 32 years ago, the company consisted of one plastic injection molding press in a single room. Houck’s fledgling company earned less than $100,000 in that first year of business. Things have changed a lot since 1975.
The Canton-based company, which manufactures plastic parts for the automotive industry, has grown into a thriving 387-employee business. In 2006, DLH had sales of more than $25 million, a five percent increase from 2005 — and the company hired 15 new employees.
Things haven’t stopped changing for the manufacturer, as it continues down the path of expansion and growth it began in 2006. DLH is expanding its assembly floor space by adding a new, 43,500-square-foot building. The company invested $1.3 million in the expansion.
The manufacturer has also invested more than $1 million in new machinery and equipment to increase efficiency and remain competitive. The additions included two state-of-the-art injection molding machines, worth more than $200,000, and a new CNC-EDM machine, an investment of $180,000.
The key to DLH’s successful growth is its relentless pursuit of quality. The company carries a PPM (defective parts per million) rating of zero with its largest customer, General Motors. DLH also strives for 100 percent on-time delivery to its automotive customers. The emphasis on quality work and service has not gone unnoticed, as DLH received a Delphi Pinnacle Supplier Appreciation Award in 2006.
The company also achieved ISO 14001 registration in 2006 — an international certification showing that the company is an environmentally conscious manufacturer.
DLH Industries is also committed to improving its surrounding community. In the 32 years he’s been in business, Houck has been responsible for funneling $300 million into the local economy through employee wages, taxes and local purchases. Of DLH’s 387 employees, 259 are in Stark County.
Also, the company has been a strong supporter of the United Way for more than 17 years. In 2006, the company and its employees pledged $36,500 toward that organization.
How to reach: DLH Industries Inc., (330) 478-2503 or www.dlh-inc.com
