One Innovative Product Sparks a Tradition

The invention that led to Brass-Craft Manufacturing originated in 1939, when Robert M. Zell created a prototype flexible riser tube.

Zell, a manufacturer's representative, crafted water supply stops and flexible water supply tubes from brass bar stock and copper tubing in the basement of his Royal Oak, Michigan home. But due to wartime material shortages, the commercialization of Zell’s invention was delayed until the mid 1940s. Brass-Craft Manufacturing Company was officially incorporated to produce the new product in 1946.

The Signature Product

Zell’s invention led the industry-wide transition from rigid galvanized iron pipe to flexible copper plumbing. In 1963, BrassCraft was first again with the invention of the company’s signature product, the one-piece supply stop. Zell redesigned the original four-piece valve body into one piece, and added BrassCraft’s oval handle. This innovation made BrassCraft the most popular name in the industry, and sparked the company’s rapid growth.

Emergence of DIY Market

In the mid 1970s, the do-it-yourself (DIY) consumer market was beginning to take off. To capitalize, BrassCraft expanded its PlumbShop brand of DIY products, to be sold in retail outlets. During this period, the company added complementary products, and began focusing on merchandising, packaging and how-to literature. Today, the company markets its products under the BrassCraft and PlumbShop brands.

Core Business Strategy

BrassCraft has continued to grow, despite increased competition and “copycat” products, compounded by the influx of low-cost imports. It was this market situation that caused BrassCraft to refine its business strategy to more fully utilize its marketing, engineering and manufacturing strengths. The strategy consists of ongoing programs to create new, proprietary products and programs, tailored to the distinct needs of various market segments.

BrassCraft, A Masco Company

In 1983, BrassCraft became a wholly owned subsidiary of Masco Corporation (www.masco.com) BrassCraft was an ideal fit for Masco, which seeks building and home improvement companies that demonstrate above-average growth and profitability; are leaders in their markets; and are committed to enhancing the personal growth and development of their employees. Examples of just a few other Masco Companies are Delta Faucet, KraftMaid and Merillat Cabinets, Aqua Glass and Alsons.

Continued Innovation and Growth

Today, BrassCraft continues to expand and grow in the same tradition as when it was founded by introducing new and innovative products every year. BrassCraft is a multinational corporation headquartered in Novi, Michigan with offices and manufacturing facilities across the U.S. and Canada, and distributors worldwide.