Webster NY, 2023 - Classic Automation, a leading provider of refurbished and surplus industrial automation and control equipment, celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2023. The company has come a long way since its inception. Its journey is a testament to its employees’ hard work and dedication.
Classic Automation was founded in 2003 by Fritz Ruebeck, who identified a gap in the market for high-quality refurbished and replacement automation equipment. In 2003, Fritz left ABB realizing the space the company had left behind for many engineers like himself, and took the opportunity to start a one-man operation in his home. His business model was based on a website supplying parts for existing control systems. The company started small, operating with a few employees in Fritz's Webster NY home. The founder's vision and commitment to excellence soon paid off and Classic Automation quickly gained a reputation for providing reliable and cost-effective automation parts and repairs.
In 2006, the company purchased 15,000 square foot building in Rochester, NY, solidifying its rapid growth. Under Fritz, the company outgrew its original location and purchased a facility in Webster, NY in 2013. In 2019, a warehouse expansion brought the building to 53,000 square feet to accommodate the increased parts inventory. In 2023 Classic Automation is expanding its capabilities, by clearing space for a new testing area to accommodate more system-specific testing fixtures and an ever-growing employee base.
Over the past 20 years, Classic Automation has grown rapidly, expanding its product lines and customer base, and was featured multiple times as a Rochester top 100 company. Today, the company offers one of the largest selections of manufacturers and parts of industrial automation equipment in the industry. This includes programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), DCSs, panel controllers, industrial PCs, and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
"I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved over the past 20 years," said Fritz. "Our success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees, as well as the loyalty of our customers. We are grateful for their support and look forward to continuing to provide high-quality parts and repairs for many years to come."
Classic Automation has also invested heavily in technology and infrastructure to ensure its customers receive the best possible service. In 2022 the company introduced its own line of powerful process panel controllers called Panelicity. Panelicity is a 3x6 controller designed to simplify new installations and provides updated technology for upgrades of older panel controllers. The company is outfitted with over 100 system-specific testing fixtures with a 3-D printer, thermal guns, an X-ray machine, and BGA reading stations. The company's state-of-the-art repair facility and testing lab are staffed by experienced technicians who can diagnose and repair almost any type of automation equipment.
Classic Automation's commitment to quality and customer service has earned it a reputation as a trusted partner for some of the world's leading manufacturers and system integrators. By refurbishing and repairing parts their goal is to extend the lifecycle of existing systems. With this mindset, the company hopes to cut back on the need for manufacturing and materials. Moving towards a more sustainable plan. With customers in over 110 countries, the company is well-positioned for continued success in the years to come.
As Classic Automation celebrates its 20th anniversary, the company remains committed to its founding principles of quality, reliability, and customer service, sticking to its motto “We help keep the world’s production running.” With a talented team of over 65 employees and a proven track record of success, the company is poised to continue its growth and make an even bigger impact in the automation industry.