A REPUTATION BASED ON EXCELLENCE
Since its beginnings almost 175 years ago, Hesse actively contributes to the evolution of society by recognizing innovating opportunities in order to meet the needs of its customers.
In 1847, William G. Hesse & Sons Manufacturing Co. is founded by German immigrant William G. Hesse in Leavenworth, Kansas. Just a few miles west of the convergence of the Santa Fe, California and Oregon trails, Hesse and his sons build and service westward wagon trains and Prairie schooners. Many of their early customers are part of the California gold rush of 1849.
Over the ensuing years, the company adapts to changing times. As the horse and buggy make way for the automobile, Hesse focusses on car bodies and grows to be one of the largest auto body manufacturers in the United States. In the 30’s, the company becomes an expert in producing specialized truck bodies to the rapidly developing beverage industry. During World War II, the company uses its know-how to supply fire trucks to the U.S. Army and Navy.
At the end of the war, the company turns its attention again to the beverage industry to soon become the industry standard for quality and innovation. The company designs the first all-aluminum beverage body, which is displayed at the World’s Fair in 1964.
Hesse has always been committed to offering new technological solutions to meet the needs of the industry. CFT Trailers acquired Hesse in 2023, making CFT Trailers the largest manufacturer of beverage trailers in Canada. This acquisition will enable customers of both divisions to benefit from the technological advances and ergonomic options of their choice.
This tradition-rich history is the foundation on which we are building our future.
