Gauer Metal Products: From War in the Pacific to Industry Leader in Metal Fabrication
Founded in 1946: A Legacy of Innovation
In 1946, after serving in the Marines, Walter W. Gauer used his mustering-out pay to purchase a surplus military truck, launching Gauer Metal Products with his brother Edward Gauer and machinist Eugene Wroble. As the youngest and most driven partner, Walter handled sales, deliveries, and part processing. The company initially focused on manufacturing hotplates, bakery racks, early carton flow shelving, conveyors, and general machining, laying the foundation for decades of innovation in metal fabrication.
Gauer Metal Products HQ Building
Pioneering Carton Flow Shelving
In 1945, Lansing Shields, President of Grand Union Co., patented a gravity-feed rear-load shelving design (approved in 1948). This innovative system used inclined runways to allow merchandise to slide forward as items were picked, streamlining restocking. Impressed by Walter Gauer’s entrepreneurial spirit, Shields partnered with Gauer Metal Products to manufacture these units under the Food-O-Mat brand for Grand Union supermarkets. After Shields’ passing, Grand Union shifted focus, but Gauer continued producing carton flow shelving independently, leading to the development of the renowned Flo-Rak carton flow shelving line. Today, Flo-Rak remains a leader in the industry, built on Gauer’s commitment to quality and durability.
Revolutionizing Metal Processing with Deburring Machines
Walter Gauer’s vision for safer, cleaner metal edges sparked the creation of the V Series Deburring Machine. Designed to remove sharp burrs from slit coil and sheared plates, this machine introduced the industry-standard “Gauer Bar.” Today, Gauer Safety Edgers are used by metal service centers across six continents, known for their reliability and precision. Gauer’s deburring machines have transformed metal fabrication, ensuring safer and higher-quality materials worldwide.
Gauer Metal Products Today: Excellence in Custom Metal Fabrication
For over 75 years, Gauer Metal Products has been a trusted name in custom metal fabrication. Operating from two facilities totaling 70,000 square feet in Kenilworth, New Jersey, Gauer specializes in stamping, cutting, bending, welding, and machining across materials like carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and titanium. Every product meets GauerBuilt standards, exceeding industry demands for performance and longevity. From carton flow shelving to deburring machines, Gauer’s dedication to engineering excellence and customer satisfaction makes us the preferred choice for businesses worldwide.
Contact Gauer Metal Products
Ready to elevate your operations with GauerBuilt solutions? Contact us today to discuss your metal fabrication, carton flow shelving, or deburring machine needs. Visit our Contact Page for more information.