About Us
Gremada Industries is a successful and growing business owned by the Gregory F. Butler family. It began in the early 1950s when Francis Butler saw opportunity in worn parts. His vision took root in 1955 after investing in welding and machining capability to repair Caterpillar components. After operating within Butler Machinery for many years, Gremada Industries was officially incorporated in 1962 and was so named after Francis’ three sons – Greg, Matthew, and David.
Greg Butler took over the business in 1981 and oversaw the continued expansion of remanufacturing services to Caterpillar dealers throughout North America. In 1985, Gremada agreed to supply remanufactured final drive hubs directly to Caterpillar. Over the course of a 23-year relationship, Gremada remanufactured Caterpillar final drives, transmissions, brake bands and shoes, differentials, and torque converters, among other products.
The Caterpillar relationship was only part of a growing and successful business. Gremada was one of the first companies to commercialize laser cladding, which triggered the start of Texas-based Laser Cladding Services in 2001. The business was committed to technology and in 2000 completed its SAP software implementation. In 2006, Gremada solidified a remanufacturing relationship with Komatsu. By 2008, Gregory Butler had taken Gremada from its humble origins to a 225-person organization with facilities grossing 250,000 square feet in four locations. In July of 2008, Greg’s success was rewarded when he authorized the sale of most North Dakota assets to Caterpillar. Laser Cladding Services was purposefully excluded from the transaction.
Today, Gremada Industries is moving in an exciting direction with new leadership and a redefined business model. Although Greg Butler has partially retired, both he and his family remain committed to the entrepreneurial values that motivated Francis to start Gremada and Greg to shape its success. Under the leadership of newly appointed President and CEO Steve Walker, Gremada remains committed to the success of Laser Cladding Services while actively pursuing acquisitions that enhance its business portfolio.
