History

Metalex, powered by UPG, was founded in 1962 in Libertyville, IL by two local entrepreneurs. With diverse and complementary expertise in salesmanship and engineering, they grew their company with one machine in a small factory on the east edge of town. In 1979, Metalex moved into a facility on the site of a former horse farm in south Libertyville.

Metalex continued to grow and added to the original building in 1983, increasing total square footage to 150,000 and equipment totaling 23 expanding lines, a full machine shop and a secondary processing department that includes shearing, stamping and plasma cutting. In 2005, Metalex acquired Arcor, a manufacturer of perforated metal and a variety of metal tubes primarily for the fluid filtration industry.

In 2011, Metalex acquired Morton Manufacturing, the leading manufacturer of anti-slip walking surfaces for railcars, specifically for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The company also supplies distributors, OEMs and aftermarket customers in the agricultural, heavy equipment and general industrial space.

Morton has been providing customers with consistently superior products and excellent customer service since 1903 from the 200,000-square-foot facility, also located in Libertyville. Morton’s Open-Grip®, DeckSpan® and Tread-Grip® proprietary product designs provide non-slip surfaces that meet or exceed federal specifications for slip resistance.

In 2014, Metalex and Morton merged under the Metalex name. In 2019, Metalex was acquired by UPG Enterprises LLC, a strategic operator of metals and logistics companies across North America.

Metalex Quality Policy

Metalex is committed to providing high quality products meeting customer expectations through continuous improvement, teamwork, and individual responsibility.

Mission Statement Infographic: describes components of mission, strategy, and culture of the company

Expertise

Metalex Sales personnel are long-term employees with years of experience at the company. Armed with full product and capability knowledge, they can do much more than take your order. They can help you determine the proper product for your needs, whether it is expanded metal, perforated metal, or perforated tubes. Along with the Metalex Sales Team, our Engineering group can assist in ensuring the right product for your application.

Metalex enjoys sole source partnerships with many of our customers. Having earned Quality Preferred and Strategic Supplier designations at Key Customers, Metalex is focused on superior Quality, Service, and Delivery. Metalex is an ISO 9001:2015 Registered company.

About UPG Enterprises LLC

UPG Enterprises LLC is an operator of a diverse set of industrial companies focused on metals, manufacturing, distribution and logistics. Our success continues to be driven from within, starting with our dedicated employees who operate with a sense of urgency, commitment to customers and flexibility to do what’s right on the spot without question. With locations throughout North America, its operations continue to grow with the intention of building a business based on culture, respect and growth. Founded by two families with multi-generational experience in various industries, UPG prides itself on having a long-term approach to business, entrepreneurial spirit and excellent teams that represent its family of companies.