McFarlane Name Change

McFarlane unveils new brand

After 50 years, McFarlane Sheet Metal is shortening its name to better reflect the company and its services.

"Our name is now simply McFarlane," said Dave McFarlane, leader of the company since 1979. "We've removed the 'Sheet Metal' from our name because the products and services we now offer are very diverse. Sheet metal fabrication, installation and mechanical contracting are still a key part of our business, but we do much more."

What started in a small garage at South Third Street and Division Avenue has since moved to 3473 N. Washington St. in Grand Forks. McFarlane said sales have grown at a rate of about 14 percent annually from $220,000 in 1980 to $7 million in 2007. He said employment has also grown and the total payroll for the company increased from $87,000 to $1.9 million during the same 27-year time period.

Mitch Price is now a partner in the company and has been appointed to general manager. During Price's five years with McFarlane, the company has seen expanded sales in both industrial sheet metal and commercial and residential service.

An example of stainless steel specialties created by McFarlane is the paddle wheel in Grand Forks' Town Square. McFarlane has also maximized cost and energy efficiencies for government facilities. McFarlane said his company designs and builds with an emphasis on waste heat recovery.

"We focus on a 'solution-based' approach in all of our work and to comprehensive building and facility energy management," McFarlane said. "It made sense to turn to a company that focuses on marketing solutions through a comprehensive brand development."