Frank C. Sullivan founded Republic Powdered Metals, Inc. (RPM Inc.) in Cleveland, Ohio. The company manufactured one product – Alumanation, and to this day, the heavy-duty, protective coating has remained a best-seller for RPM.

After more than 15 years of private ownership, RPM Inc. sold 25,000 shares of common stock to the public in an intrastate offering in Ohio in 1963. The shares sold out in 48 hours and paved the way for a national public stock offering a few years later.

Mohawk Finishing Products joins RPM as a leading manufacturer and distributor of professional wood touch-up, repair, and finishing products. Mohawk products are still the go-to choice for professionals 50+ years later.

KopCoat Protection Products joins RPM International as a global supplier of innovative chemical programs and application equipment, whose mission is to protect buildings, forests, and farms from biological and weathering damage.

RPM Inc. makes its first appearance on the Fortune 500 list, which at the time, was comprised of the world’s largest industrial manufacturers. Most recently, RPM appeared again at #489 on the list in 2020.

TCI Powder Coatings joins RPM. Founded in Ellaville, Georgia, with a modest plant and a portable building that served as the lab and office space, TCI has become a leader in industrial powder and liquid coatings for metal. 

FinishWorks joins RPM. Finishworks manufactures and distributes industrial wood and metal coatings. They are a recognized leader in supplying tailored coatings solutions, combining trend-setting finish design with outstanding color consistency.

Morrells Woodfinishes joins RPM. Located in the United Kingdom, Morrells Woodfinishes has been manufacturing and distributing advanced wood coatings across the world for over 120 years.

RPM released its first Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report highlighting the company’s safe, ethical, and sustainable business practices, which result in value creation for RPM’s key stakeholders and help to build a better world for all.

Through exceptional service and a comprehensive offering of innovative products, RPM Industrial Coatings Group (RPM ICG) debuted as a complete finishing solution for its customers. The group is composed of industry-leading brands: Mohawk Finishing Products, FinishWorks, TCI Powder Coatings, Morrells Woodfinishes, and KopCoat Protection Products. RPM ICG is part of the Specialty Products Group within RPM International Inc.

MRT joins the RPM Industrial Coatings Group, specializing in developing advanced coatings, additives, and services to support the recreational market segment. Their five industry-leading brands include Pettit, Ramuc, Tuff Coat, ValvTect, and Woolsey.

After four years of planning, the RPM Innovation Center of Excellence opens in pursuit of our commitment to innovation, quality, and service.  Learn more about our Innovation Center.