Company Spotlight | Red Devil: A Century and a Half of Industrial Excellence
04/09/2024
Strategic Location at MidAmerica Industrial Park, a Catalyst for Success
In 2022, Red Devil, Inc. celebrated 150 years of business, showcasing a steadfast commitment to innovation and adaptability. Originating as a glazier tool manufacturer in 1872, the company has evolved into a leading provider of hand tools and chemical products.
Strategically located at MidAmerica Industrial Park, Red Devil positions itself for success, leveraging the Park’s unique attributes to propel its growth and efficiency. The decision to make Pryor, Oklahoma the company’s primary location is a testament to the region’s pro-business environment and aligns with Red Devil’s operational goals.
Led by President William Lee, Red Devil’s journey began with the foresight of its founder and Lee’s grandfather, Landon P. Smith. During a trip to Sweden, Smith heard a blacksmith remark “those little red devils” after sparks from the forge singed his arm. This remark gave birth to the trademark name ‘Red Devil.’
Today, Red Devil’s primary focus lies in manufacturing paint sundry products, specializing in diverse construction and repair solutions. Their product catalog features an extensive range of hand tools and chemical products. The company produces caulks, sealants and tools under its brand name and manufactures private label products for major hardware and home center chains.
Recent years have seen Red Devil undergoing expansion and modernization, with ongoing efforts to implement a computerized system for production efficiency. One notable development is the introduction of new packaging technology, addressing sustainability concerns by replacing single-use plastic cartridges with biodegradable foil packs compatible with standard caulk guns.
Red Devil’s manufacturing flexibility sets it apart in the industry. The ability to produce batches ranging from small to large quantities caters to diverse customer needs. The company’s commitment to quality and precision extends to color matching, where they excel in providing exact matches, incorporating microspheres and utilizing unique ingredients to enhance product performance.
Beyond the factory, the company actively engages in community outreach. The Red Devil Foundation contributes to diverse organizations including Habitat for Humanity, the American Cancer Society, and many local organizations.
MidAmerica Industrial Park has been pivotal to Red Devil’s operations, providing a triad of essential elements: land, labor and energy. Originating from an agricultural history, the workforce at MidAmerica understands the value of hard work and the commitment to putting in a great day’s effort—an ethos that resonates with Red Devil’s own dedication to excellence.
Partnerships within MidAmerica, particularly with the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA), have proven instrumental. The reliable energy source offered by GRDA, comprising both sustainable and traditional energy, ensures operational continuity for Red Devil.
The MidAmerica team itself has undergone significant development over the past 5-10 years, evolving to meet the dynamic needs of businesses located in the Park. When Red Devil required additional warehouse facilities, the MidAmerica team provided solutions, working closely with Red Devil to establish a setup that met their requirements, showcasing the collaborative spirit that defines the Park.
The support from the Oklahoma government, the state’s pro-business stance and its central location—with easy access to shipping routes, just 1 ½ ship days to either coast—have further solidified Oklahoma as an ideal base for Red Devil’s operations.
Red Devil’s strategic decision to move its headquarters to Tulsa in 2005 was driven by a forward-looking vision. Recognizing Northeast Oklahoma as the future of the company, the move positioned Red Devil at the heart of a thriving business hub. A cost comparison between MidAmerica and Red Devil’s previous location in New Jersey highlights the economic advantages, with MidAmerica offering a significantly more cost-effective option. This affordability extends to cost of living as housing costs in the region, ranking among the top three in the country.
In essence, Red Devil’s choice of MidAmerica as its operational base is a strategic alignment meeting logistical and economic needs while fostering a collaborative business environment. This collaboration stands as a model for how the right location can serve as a catalyst for sustained success in the industrial landscape.
As Red Devil looks to the future, the company is poised for sustained success within the industrial landscape. Rooted in a history of providing solutions, Red Devil remains committed to delivering quality products and contributing positively to both local and global markets.
“Red Devils’ location in Oklahoma, specifically MidAmerica Industrial Park, has played a significant role in our success. Northeast Oklahoma’s unique blend of essential elements – land, labor, and energy – has driven our growth and operational efficiency. The collaborative culture within the Park, coupled with the support from key partners, is unparalleled. Our commitment to excellence aligns seamlessly with the pro-business environment of Oklahoma.”
– William S. Lee, President, Red Devil
