Randy Pruitt had owned Detroit Radiator Corp. for nearly 10 years when a major fire devastated the warehouse and production facility, putting his goal of 40 percent growth for 2010 in serious jeopardy.
But Pruitt was determined to meet that goal. He directed his sales team to step up its efforts and offered a 20 percent discount for all customer orders. Pruitt wanted to send his customers a message that despite the fire, he was committed to delivering the goods and services they required. The strategy worked, as 2010 revenue doubled over 2009 figures and net income tripled.
Under Pruitt’s leadership during this challenging time, employees gave an unprecedented level of service, both individually and as a team. An enthusiastic culture developed and core values of teamwork, pride, adaptability, humility and honesty were established.
The work didn’t end there. Pruitt formed a leadership team to develop the method of communicating the vision and direction of the company, which has brought positive results.
Pruitt was no newcomer to the industry when he founded Randall Industries Inc. in 1991. He had worked during high school repairing automotive radiators, then managed a radiator repair garage. Soon, he began servicing heavy-duty truck radiators and realized that there was an aftermarket for the parts. His years of repairing radiators helped him to re-engineer better all-metal products with increased cooling capacity over the original plastic and aluminum versions. Pruitt was able to build these aftermarket solutions at a much lower cost than the original manufacturer’s product. And in 2001, he purchased Detroit Radiator Corp.
Through it all, Pruitt communicates a clear vision for the company to every employee — be the best. He also communicates a very clear purpose – keep changing the game. This vision and purpose continue to drive the entrepreneurial spirit of every member of his team.
How to reach: Detroit Radiator Corp., (734) 284-9070 or www.detroitradiatorcorp.com
