Andrews & West Chester Locations Complete ISO 14001 Audits with Zero Major Findings
Two of our SixAxis facilities, one in Andrews, South Carolina, and the other in West Chester, Ohio, have completed their most recent ISO 14001 surveillance audits with no major non-conformance findings.
This successful outcome reflects our strong organizational commitment to environmental responsibility and operational excellence. The ISO 14001 auditor praised the teams at both sites for their dedication, preparation, and ongoing progress. Special thanks go to all teammates involved in supporting and improving our environmental systems and efficiency efforts.
Understanding ISO 14001
ISO 14001 is an internationally recognized standard for environmental management systems (EMS). It helps organizations design and maintain a framework to manage environmental responsibilities in a systematic, measurable way.
By aligning with ISO 14001, our facilities commit to reducing environmental impact, maintaining legal compliance, and driving continuous improvement in areas such as resource efficiency, waste reduction, and stakeholder engagement.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Achieving favorable audit results is a milestone, but not the destination. ISO 14001 serves as an evolving framework. One that encourages us to keep pushing forward in how we manage environmental responsibilities.
It provides a structured path toward:
Minimizing our environmental footprint
Conserving energy and resources
Improving process efficiency
Meeting and exceeding stakeholder expectations
Enhancing readiness for global trade
These results affirm that we’re on the right path, but they also inspire us to keep improving. As we strengthen our systems and processes, we aim not only to elevate our organization—but also to contribute positively to the communities where we live and work. Environmental responsibility is ongoing, and we remain committed to doing our part.
With the USS Yorktown as a backdrop in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, SafeRack’s 2025 Global Sales Summit assembles our industry-leading sales team of RAMs (Regional Area Managers) to celebrate outstanding achievements. This event brings together key departments—including Marketing, Engineering, Vertical Market Specialists, Customer Service, Plant Operations, and our Executive Team—to strengthen our “Customer First” approach.
This year’s theme was driven by our core belief that “You Rely on Us Because They Rely on You,” recognizes that every safety solution we provide helps ensure our customers return home to their families daily. This profound responsibility guides our entire organization as we pioneer new approaches for delivering the safest, most efficient solutions for our customers’ mission-critical operations.
Celebrating Outstanding Achievement
This year’s meeting recognized exceptional performers across multiple categories, acknowledging their outstanding contributions to SafeRack’s mission of safety and customer excellence.
Looking Forward
As we enter 2025, SafeRack is poised to continue providing innovative solutions that empower customers to maintain safety and efficiency. This meeting reaffirmed our commitment to growth, teamwork, and delivering on our promise to keep workers safe.
Stay tuned for more updates on how SafeRack continues to lead the way in industrial safety solutions. Here’s to a year of excellence and innovation!
At SixAxis, we understand dedication to doing the job right and the importance of safety above all else. This Christmas, we celebrate the hardworking individuals who give their all each day—not just for their teams at work, but for their loved ones waiting at home.
We know you rise before dawn, putting in long hours to provide for your families. You work hard and give it your all, because they depend on you. And at the end of the day, when you finally walk through the door to see their smiling faces, you know it’s all worth it.
This Christmas, we honor your commitment and remind you that your safety matters—to your families and to us. Because they rely on you, you can rely on us.
From all of us at SixAxis, SafeRack, and ErectaStep, we wish you and your family a safe and joyous holiday season.
We proudly announce that the SixAxis manufacturing sites, which produce the SafeRack, Upside Innovations, and ErectaStep brands, have all achieved ISO 14001:2015 certification for their environmental management systems. This significant milestone underscores our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship across all our operations.
What is ISO 14001:2015?
ISO 14001:2015 specifies the requirements for an environmental management system (EMS) that an organization can use to enhance its environmental performance. This standard is intended for organizations looking to systematically manage their environmental responsibilities and contribute to environmental sustainability.
Benefits of ISO 14001:2015 Certification
Achieving ISO 14001:2015 certification demonstrates our commitment to:
Sustainable Practices: This certification reflects our dedication to reducing environmental impact through sustainable business practices.
Compliance and Quality: ISO 14001:2015 is a globally recognized standard that ensures our compliance with environmental laws and regulations, enhancing the quality and reliability of our products.
Continuous Improvement: We are committed to improving our environmental performance, ensuring our operations are efficient and environmentally responsible.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
At SixAxis, we recognize the critical role of environmental management in our business processes. This certification highlights our leadership and commitment in this area, integrating environmental management into our core business strategy. We strive to:
Involve top management in environmental initiatives.
Enhance environmental protection throughout our processes.
Adopt a life cycle approach to our production systems.
Ensure transparent, truthful, reliable, and understandable communication of environmental information to all stakeholders.
We are proud of this achievement and remain dedicated to maintaining high standards of environmental responsibility.
Introducing the next-generation YellowGate, setting a new standard in industrial safety with unmatched installation speed. Designed to make safety effortless, YellowGate is pre-assembled so it installs in seconds with no special tools required, securing your facility in just three simple steps.
The standard industrial YellowGate safety gates cover openings between 24” and 36” and can be adjusted in the field with nothing more than a wrench. Simply measure the opening, slide the gate to the desired width, tighten the adjustment bolts, and you’re done. This flexibility allows you to save time and money while maintaining the highest safety standards for your facility.
Manufactured in the USA from heavy-gauge aluminum, YellowGate is built to last and complies with OSHA regulations. The pre-assembled design eliminates the need for field cutting, drilling, or special tools, making installation as quick and effortless as possible. Additionally, YellowGate is in stock and ready to ship, ensuring your facility’s safety without delay.
YellowGate is not just a safety gate; it’s a comprehensive efficiency solution designed to meet your facility’s demands. With its swift installation, extensive adjustability, and dedication to quality and sustainability, YellowGate is the premier choice for securing industrial passageways efficiently and effectively.
Upgrade to YellowGate and prioritize safety and efficiency at your facility today!
SafeRack, LLC located in Andrews, South Carolina was recently chosen to receive a 2024 Safety Award of Merit from the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA). Open to all FMA company members, the FMA/CNA Annual Safety Awards recognize metal fabrication companies that adhere to excellence in safety.
Sponsored by CNA, the endorsed business insurance carrier for FMA, the Awards are designed to promote safety in the industry, and winners are selected by the FMA Safety Council. The Safety Award of Merit is given to companies posting an injury and illness incidence rate for the reporting period that is better than the published Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) rate by 10 percent or greater, based on their NAICS code.
To be eligible to receive recognition, companies were required to submit OSHA Form 300A, Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses, for the period Jan. 1, 2023, through Dec. 31, 2023. Firms of all sizes were eligible. Winners were selected based on North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code categories and BLS injury and illness incidence rates. The complete list of 2024 award winners has been published on FMA’s blog.
SafeRack is the recognized industry leader in truck and railcar loading platform systems, maintenance work platforms, rolling platforms and related safety and fall protection products.
About FMA
The Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) supports the workforce lifecycle in the metal fabricating industry by bringing awareness of manufacturing careers to the next generation, helping metal fabricators to hone their skills, and engaging them through conferences and tradeshows. Founded in 1970, FMA is a co-founder and co-sponsor of FABTECH, the industry’s leading tradeshow, and the publisher of The Fabricator, The Tube and Pipe Journal, The Welder, The Fabricator en Español, Canadian Metalworking, and Canadian Fabricating and Welding. Learn more about FMA.
We are excited to announce the appointment of Scott Harris as the Chief Financial Officer of SixAxis. Scott, who initially joined us as Interim CFO, has quickly become an indispensable part of our team, contributing significantly to our strategy development and leading our budgeting process for the upcoming year.
Scott brings to SixAxis a wealth of financial leadership experience spanning over three decades, with roles across various industries such as banking, automotive, safety and security, and specialty chemicals. A Brown University alumnus with an MBA from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, his expertise in team building, strategic planning, mergers & acquisitions, financial governance, and performance delivery makes him an ideal leader for our financial future.
Under Scott’s leadership, SixAxis is poised to navigate the complexities of today’s financial landscape with precision and strategic foresight. His role is instrumental in steering our financial operations and shaping a culture of innovation, teamwork, and sustained growth.
ANDREWS, SOUTH CAROLINA, February 13, 2024 – SixAxis, LLC, a market-leading provider of highly engineered, compliance-driven safety equipment solutions across diverse end markets, today announced the appointment of Al Weggeman as Chief Executive Officer, following a thorough CEO search process.
Mr. Weggeman brings over 30 years of leadership experience in the safety and security industry, as well as a broad set of skills spanning commercial, technical, and operational domains, focusing on safety solutions that support industrial, law enforcement, military, and aviation customers globally. Before joining SixAxis, Mr. Weggeman was the CEO of InVeris Training Solutions, the leading supplier of integrated live fire and virtual reality training solutions for law enforcement, military, and commercial ranges. During his tenure at InVeris, he was responsible for driving transformational change into virtual training solutions including the acquisition of a leading virtual reality training solutions provider. Under Mr. Weggeman’s leadership, SixAxis is ushering in the next chapter of growth focused initiatives in the safety solutions market.
“I am passionate about providing safety solutions that support a safe working environment and help ensure employees go home safely at night to their families,” said Mr. Weggeman. “SixAxis has an incredible team and culture, which plays an invaluable role in helping keep our customers and their employees safe at work. I am honored to have been chosen to lead the business and champion our safety mandate.”
SixAxis Chief Commercial Officer Jack Murphy notes, “Al brings a unique perspective and energy that will continue to support our growth and innovation. His approach of challenging and inspiring our team will fit in well with our team.”
Chief Human Resource Officer Eric Grothaus adds, “Al’s leadership experience and global perspective coupled with the existing strength of our team signals more great things ahead for SixAxis.”
“With decades of experience as a manufacturing leader in mission-critical end markets, SixAxis is in great hands with Al,” says Kelly Myers, MiddleGround Capital’s Managing Director of Operations. “He is a seasoned leader with experience scaling businesses without compromising on quality and we’re excited to partner with Al in his new role as CEO. He’s joining a talented team; this is an exciting chapter for SixAxis!”
Mr. Weggeman holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management from Northwestern University and a BSEE from Northeastern University.
SixAxis was acquired by operationally focused private equity firm MiddleGround Capital in November 2022.
About SixAxis, LLC
SixAxis was founded in 2002 to deliver high-quality loading rack and fall protection solutions throughout the industrial landscape. The company has developed a market-leading portfolio of three premium brands including SafeRack, ErectaStep, and Upside Innovations, all created to design and manufacture superior solutions that increase worker safety and boost productivity. For more information about how SixAxis is changing the world of manufacturing with a diverse array of innovative products and solutions made to give your business a competitive edge, visit sixaxisllc.com.
We are excited to announce Doug Odum’s promotion to Chief Operating Officer at SixAxis. This advancement is a testament to Doug’s remarkable journey with SixAxis, reflecting both the expansion of his role over the past year and his pivotal contributions to our company’s growth.
In his new capacity, Doug will continue to spearhead the drive towards operational excellence, ensuring that our operations across SixAxis not only meet but exceed our standards of efficiency and effectiveness. His role is crucial as we navigate the path of expanding our business, and this title change is a nod to his increasing responsibilities and the significant impact he has on our operations.
Doug’s tenure with SixAxis spans over fourteen years, during which he has taken on roles of increasing responsibility within our Operations organization. His journey is marked by a steadfast dedication to excellence, a passion for team building, and exemplary leadership qualities. These attributes have been instrumental in our company’s success and will undoubtedly continue to be so as we look to the future.
Doug’s promotion is well-deserved and we’re excited to see the continued positive impact of his leadership on SixAxis and are confident in his ability to propel us to new heights.
Celebrating Success: SafeRack’s Sales Team Triumphs in 2023
Mount Pleasant, SC – Amidst the backdrop of the USS Yorktown, SafeRack’s sales team recently celebrated a year marked by unwavering commitment to safety and customer excellence. This gathering in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, celebrated achievements and reaffirmed our core mission: to provide safe access solutions and unparalleled service in the field by enhancing Collaboration and Growth in 2024!
A Commitment to Safety and Service: Our sales team is at the forefront of this mission. Each member plays a pivotal role in ensuring that every product we offer meets the highest safety standards and that every client interaction is imbued with our dedication to excellence.
Celebrating Our Safety Champions
Big Horn Club
Recognizing the top ~5% of our Regional Account Managers (RAMs) for their exceptional commitment to safety and customer service.
(L-R) Bryce Jordan, Tom Merschdorf, Phillip King, Nate Elliott, Shane Lykke, Cody Harris, and John Nance (VP of sales)
RAM of the Year
Cody Harris, representing the Gulf Coast, was honored for his outstanding dedication to providing safe and reliable solutions.
Margin Award Winners
(L-R) John Nance (VP of Sales), Brad Lamberton, Cody Harris, Travis McCrane, Nate Elliott, Jason McKinney, and Jack Murphy (Chief Commercial Officer)
Top Margin Award Winner
Jason McKinney
ErectaStep Award Winners
(L-R) John Nance (VP of Sales), Florens Verstraten (Business Unit Leader), Derek Rose, Shane Lykke, Jon Verlander, Nate Elliott, Cody Harris, Bryce Jordan, Phillip King, and Jack Murphy (Chief Commercial Officer) Jody Ashworth (not pictured)
King of ErectaStep
Jon Verlander
Tom Semiklose Award
Tom Semiklose awarded Raquel Strickland for exemplifying the spirit of customer-first service, commercial excellence, resilience, and humility, all while upholding our safety values.
This event reflected SafeRack’s dedication to safety and customer excellence. We congratulate all our awardees and thank our entire sales team for their commitment to keeping workers safe and customers satisfied.
Our annual Christmas video is here! Crafted with love and a lot of laughs, it stars our team members’ adorable kids, embodying our simple yet profound belief: Safety is so fundamental that even a child understands it. This annual labor of love is our gift to you – our family, friends, customers, and partners. Join us in celebrating a season of joy and safety!
Upside Innovations Expands with New Facility, Elevating Quality and Innovation
SIXAXIS ANNOUNCES MAJOR EXPANSION WITH UPSIDE INNOVATIONS’ MOVE TO NEW, LARGER FACILITY
CINCINNATI, OHIO NOVEMBER 28, 2023-–Upside Innovations, a leading provider of ADA & IBC-compliant access solutions and a SixAxis company, is excited to announce its upcoming move to a larger facility, a significant milestone underscoring its remarkable growth and commitment to providing world-class service and innovative products. The move, expected to be completed by mid-December, is set to boost capacity and enhance Upside Innovations’ capabilities, reinforcing its position as an industry leader in manufacturing aluminum ADA ramps, commercial stairs, and canopies.
A New Chapter in Upside’s Success Story
Founded in 2009 by Kevin Sharp, inspired by his grandfather’s struggle with accessibility, Upside Innovations has consistently filled a market gap with high-quality, attractive ramp systems. “We have always focused on customer relationships and responding to their needs. Our new facility is a testament to this commitment,” said Kevin Sharp. “With our recent product additions and internal process enhancements, this expansion is poised to accelerate our quality and service further.”
Enhanced Production, Safety, and Sustainability at the Forefront
The new facility is nearly triple the size of the current space, featuring advanced production areas, dedicated welding cells for new products, and improved employee amenities. “The additional space is not just about growth; it’s about improving the work environment for our team and enhancing our product quality,” said Ryan Chance, Safety Manager. Safety and sustainability are at the heart of this expansion. “With heightened production levels, our environmental impact will be more significant. We’re integrating sustainable practices like energy-efficient LED lighting and water-saving technologies,” added Chance.
Continued Focus on Customer-Centric Solutions and Innovation
Upside Innovations remains dedicated to its entrepreneurial roots, constantly evolving its product lines and processes in response to customer feedback. The move to the new facility is expected to significantly improve the manufacturing process, enhancing employee safety, material flow, and overall product quality.
Artist Rendering
About Upside Innovations:
Upside Innovations, located in Cincinnati, OH, specializes in designing, manufacturing, shipping, and installing ADA & IBC-compliant access solutions. Their range of modular, weather-resistant aluminum products, including ADA ramps, commercial stairs, and canopies, eliminates custom fabrication and reduces costs and complexity while enhancing accessibility in various sectors. Upside Innovations is committed to sustainability, customer-centric solutions, and maintaining the highest quality and safety standards.
About SixAxis
SixAxis has provided access and safety systems to the truck, rail, ship, aviation, and aerospace industries using state-of-the-art technology since 2003. Their award-winning patented products are marketed under brands including SafeRack, ErectaStep, MarinaStep, AeroStep, YellowGate, RollaStep, and Upside Innovations to increase safety and boost productivity for industry-leading Fortune 500 companies such as Boeing, Dow, and Coca-Cola. For information about how SixAxis is changing the manufacturing world, visit sixaxisllc.com.
Career Opportunities
At SixAxis, we don’t just create products; we’ve revolutionized safety. Our people’s diversity and ideas inspire the innovation that runs through everything we do, from patented technology to industry-leading thinking. Interested in helping us make the world a safer place? Join our growing team. Get started by visiting us at sixaxisllc.com/careers
Earn CEU credits with our free one-hour online course that discusses prefabricated modular metal stairs, access platforms, and ramps. Participants will learn about the benefits and relevant codes from OSHA, IBC, and ADA regarding stairs, ladders, and handrails, but they will also learn how to specify modular stair components and configurations to facilitate code compliance best and increase site productivity.
Beautiful downtown Charleston provided the historic backdrop for our International Sales Meeting this month. Individual performance milestones were celebrated as we marked yet another record-breaking year of sales for the SixAxis family of brands. Our continued focus on Commercial Excellence refers to our commitment to top-tier customer service, superior products, and a relentless pursuit of setting the bar high across industries and vertical markets.
SafeRack Celebrates Record-Breaking Sales and Individual Performance Milestones in Beautiful Downtown Charleston
2022 was a year of record sales and exponential growth. Although our success was most definitely a collective effort, the following team members were recognized for their outstanding performance.
The Big Horn Club
RAMS in the top ~5% included Jason Mckinney, Curtis Bollinger, Steven Iser, Bryce Jordan, Cody Harris, Shane Lykke, and Derek Rose
(left to right) Jason Mckinney, Curtis Bollinger, Steven Iser, Bryce Jordan, Cody Harris, Shane Lykke, Derek Rose, and Jack Murphy, Vice President of Sales, presenting the awards.
RAM of the Year
Regional Account Manager (RAM) of the Year award was presented to Derek Rose, Regional Account Manager for Northern California and Hawaii.
Derek Rose and Derek’s Business Unit Leader, Jason Tyner
Tom Semiklose Award
Cal Floyd received the Tom Semiklose Award. This is the most prestigious annual award illustrating the qualities of its namesake by putting the customer first, demonstrating commercial excellence, exceptional grit, and humility.
Tom Semiklose and Cal Floyd
At SixAxis, we don’t just create products; we’ve revolutionized safety. The diversity of our people and their ideas inspire the innovation that runs through everything we do, from patented technology to industry-leading thinking. To learn more visit us at sixaxisllc.com
Enjoy our holiday sing-along. We promise it will make you smile.
Lyrics
It’s Christmas Eve, And fun for all, Cause work this year, Had zero falls!
You’re safely having a wonderful Christmastime, Our stairs and platforms make everything safe to climb!
You’re climbing high, With gear to schlep, Good thing you’ve got, Erectastep!
Safely having a wonderful Christmastime, Just five components will give you endless designs!
Became I.S.O. certified, Saferack turned twenty, that’s no lie! Preventing slips and trips and falls We have it all…..
We’re safely having a wonderful Christmastime For safety access, there’s no better place or time Safely having a wonderful Christmastime
It’s been a year, Of joy and pride, Joining the team, Oooour friends at Upside!
Our brand’s expanding, our products are top of line! Upside’s systems, all ADA certified
There’s Rollastep and Yellow Gate, All made in U.S.A.! Preventing slips and trips and falls We have it all…..
Exciting things, Have come to pass, We even launched, SafeRack podcast!
Have a listen, a great way to pass the time, Ray and Kenny will both have you feeling fine, Safely having a wonderful Christmastime
Ready to ship, OSHA compliant, But best of all, Oooh, is you, our clients!
We want to wish you a wonderful Christmastime, Stay safe and healthy and have a wonderful Christmastime, SixAxis wants you to have a wonderful Christmastime! Safely having a wonderful Christmastime,
SIXAXIS ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF UPSIDE INNOVATIONS APEX AND DOCK STEP MODULAR ACCESS SYSTEMS
CINCINNATI, OHIO OCTOBER 28, 2022 —Upside Innovations, a SixAxis company, has launched an innovative new modular access system. The APEX System is a modular, prefabricated line of ADA, IBC, and OSHA-compliant stairs, ramps, and canopies designed to improve safe access for businesses in a wide variety of industrial, commercial, educational, and professional sectors. Industrial-grade aluminum components bolt together to create infinite configurations, making the APEX System ideal as the needs of an installation change. By eliminating the need for custom fabrication and time-consuming engineering, the APEX System reduces costs, installation time, and complexity.
DOCK STEP industrial loading dock stairs are manufactured for use in warehouses and distribution centers. Also made from industrial-grade aluminum components, DOCK STEP systems will never rust, warp, or rot. While most loading docks only require OSHA compliance, Upside systems are also IBC and ADA compliant maximizing safety for those entering and exiting the loading dock area.
President Kevin Sharp is pleased with the expansion of the Upside Innovations modular access product line. “DOCK STEP joins the APEX System family of products including the SEMI and OMNI product lines,” he explains. “Our integrated access system of prefabricated stairs, ramps, canopies, and awnings meet the needs of our customers on a more comprehensive level.” To learn more about the APEX System, visit https://upsideinnovations.com/
SixAxis has been providing access and safety systems to the truck, rail, ship, aviation, and aerospace industries using state-of-the-art technology since 2003. Their award-winning patented products are marketed under brands including SafeRack, ErectaStep, MarinaStep, AeroStep, YellowGate, RollaStep, and Upside Innovations.
About SixAxis
SixAxis was founded in 2002 to deliver high-quality loading rack and fall protection solutions to companies around the world. Their award-winning products and patents have been developed to increase safety and boost productivity for industry-leading Fortune 500 companies such as Boeing, Dow, and Coca-Cola. For information about how SixAxis is changing the world of manufacturing, visit sixaxisllc.com.
Career Opportunities
At SixAxis, we don’t just create products, we’ve revolutionized safety. The diversity of our people and their ideas inspire the innovation that runs through everything we do, from patented technology to industry-leading thinking. Interested in helping us make the world a safer place? Join our growing team. Get started by visiting us at sixaxisllc.com/careers
ANDREWS, SOUTH CAROLINA June 22, 2022 —Joining an elite group of businesses in the state of South Carolina, SafeRack, a SixAxis company and the global leader in industrial safety equipment and access systems, has been recognized as a model for safety and health excellence as determined by OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration). The federal agency’s SHARP (Safety & Health Achievement Recognition Program) designation was awarded in September, 2021 and will be celebrated at the SixAxis campus in Andrews, SC on June 28th of this year. SC OSHA Manager for Outreach and Education Sharon Dumit will be in attendance.
SixAxis has been providing access and safety systems to the truck, rail, ship, aviation, and aerospace industries using state-of-the-art technology since 2003. Their award-winning patented products are marketed under brands including SafeRack, ErectaStep, MarinaStep, AeroStep, YellowGate, RollaStep, and Upside Innovations.
SafeRack’s Environmental Health & Safety Manager Ryan McLaughlin is particularly proud of the emphasis the company places on walking their talk. “In addition to supplying top quality safety products to our customers, we operate a world-class safety program using these same products in our own facility,” says McLaughlin. “Our priority on safety, quality, productivity, and delivery is evident as soon as you walk onto our shop floor. Our people are our most valued asset and we strive to continuously improve all facets of our organization.”
The company-wide celebration will include the signing of a renewed Safety Pledge and the ceremonial raising of the SHARP flag. SixAxis is the 8th company to be recognized as a SHARP business by South Carolina OSHA and the only since Sonoco Recycling of Spartanburg received the honor in 2015.
About SixAxis
SixAxis was founded in 2002 to deliver high-quality loading rack and fall protection solutions to companies around the world. Their award-winning products and patents have been developed to increase safety and boost productivity for industry-leading Fortune 500 companies such as Boeing, Dow, and Coca-Cola. For information about how SixAxis is changing the world of manufacturing, visit sixaxisllc.com.
SafeRack Achieves ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Certification of Registration
ANDREWS, SOUTH CAROLINA August 30, 2022 —SafeRack, the global leader in industrial safety access, egress, and fall protection systems has been awarded the ISO 9001:2015 Certificate of Registration for Quality as determined by standards developed by the ISO (International Organization of Standardization). Awarded In May 2022, the ISO 9001:2015 certification sets the standard for quality management systems (QMS) and is achieved when a manufacturer exhibits its ability to consistently produce quality products and services that meet the highest standards for customers and regulatory requirements.
Through a several-year (COVID-interrupted) process of developing systems, conducting audits, refining processes, and closing the knowledge gap for employees, Quality Manager Scott McNair is proud of the stellar effort and results of the entire team. The company brands covered under this certification include, but are not limited to, SafeRack (bulk loading equipment), ErectaStep (patented prefabricated stair and access systems), YellowGate (barrier and safety gates), and RollaStep (mobile stair and work platforms).
“This has been an enormous undertaking requiring attention to detail and cooperation from everyone. Achieving this standard reflects our hard work and dedication to being an industry leader and producing the highest quality safety equipment. In addition to the Quality Team, the Operations, Engineering, Finance, and Sales carried a heavy load while we worked through the certification process. Huge congratulations are in order.”
“Our efforts and results have brought our organization to a new standard of excellence for our customers,” explains McNair. “We’re now able to use real-time data and a standardized manufacturing process to maintain and enhance the Quality of our products and solutions.”
About SixAxis
SixAxis has been providing access, egress, and fall prevention safety equipment to the truck, rail, ship, aviation, and aerospace industries using innovative technology since 2003. Their award-winning patented products are marketed under brands including SafeRack, ErectaStep, Upside Innovations, MarinaStep, AeroStep, YellowGate, and RollaStep. For information about how SixAxis is changing the manufacturing world, visit sixaxisllc.com.
Episode #5 – The SafeRack Podcast with Upside Innovations Billy & Eli
If there’s one thing we know for sure, things change fast in the modular construction industry. Last-minute design changes and a long list of variables over which we have very little control can impact the budget and timeline for your modular installation project, and our integrated Apex System was designed to make adapting on the fly easy and affordable.
In this episode of the SafeRack Podcast, guest hosts Billy Lippert and Eli Boyd from Upside Innovations discuss how the Apex System makes ramp deck step installations straightforward and successful. Topics covered include project estimates, proper budgeting, leg anchors, stacked designs, installing surfaces, proper measuring techniques, anticipating common variables, assessing site conditions, ADA ramp heights, last-minute site changes, passing inspection, and making sure the material matches the specifications for your project. Modular industry challenges are common, but our Apex system ensures the product delivered is well-matched to the final design.
Podcasts
Truck spotting with Kenny and Ray The significance of proper truck spotting includes topics such as loading arms and hoses, open and closed loading, ISOtainers, specialized safety cages, hatch access, as well as top and bottom unloading from truck and rail.
Railcar Loading BOLOs A discussion about the variables to consider when designing a safe and effective railcar loading solution
Design-Build Services Explore the wide variety of loading and safe access applications we deliver. From simple loading spot upgrades and turn-key installations to more complex retrofits and complete rail, marine, and truck loading/unloading systems, the duo covers common concerns and requirements customers face when considering an install.
Soft Tissue Injuries Solutions for avoiding the most common workplace injury, soft tissue damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Preparing for Modular Stair & Ramp Installation Guest hosts Billy Lippert and Eli Boyd from Upside Innovations discuss how the Apex System makes ramp deck step installations straightforward and successful.
Episode #2 – A podcast about railcar loading & unloading
It’s not uncommon for customers in the railcar loading industry to come to us with a long list of questions about the specifications required for their application. Railcars are rarely uniform with length and heights varying widely depending upon the material and quantity being transported. Thankfully, we serve just about any industry from hazardous chemical and aggregate to food and beverage and oil and gas with proactive safety solutions to improve safety and increase efficiency in loading/unloading operations.
In this episode of the SafeRack Podcast, hosts Kenny Rogers and Ray Evans discuss the variables which must be considered when designing a safe and effective railcar loading solution. From tightfill for pressurized materials such as ammonium sulfate and chlorine to splash fill loading for food-grade products such as vegetable oil and corn syrup, Vertical Market Specialists Kenny and Ray cover common obstacles in railcar loading. Topics include the pitfalls of narrow gangways and how to accommodate the need for bulky PPE or piping or conduit obstructions when preparing to install or retrofit a railcar loading solution in any industry.
SafeRack’s Cement, Mining & Flatbed Fall Protection Specialist
An industry expert with 20 years of successful experience in business development and project management, Kenny can provide progressive, out-of-the-box solutions on complex plant projects.
With over 25 years of experience, Ray has been instrumental in collaborating with the top Bulk Chemical companies and works closely with local and national chemical trade associations keeping abreast of the latest legislative news and initiatives in the Agro Chem/Fertilizer, Petro, and Specialty Chemical space.
Podcasts
Truck spotting with Kenny and Ray The significance of proper truck spotting includes topics such as loading arms and hoses, open and closed loading, ISOtainers, specialized safety cages, hatch access, as well as top and bottom unloading from truck and rail.
Railcar Loading BOLOs A discussion about the variables to consider when designing a safe and effective railcar loading solution
Design-Build Services Explore the wide variety of loading and safe access applications we deliver. From simple loading spot upgrades and turn-key installations to more complex retrofits and complete rail, marine, and truck loading/unloading systems, the duo covers common concerns and requirements customers face when considering an install.
Soft Tissue Injuries Solutions for avoiding the most common workplace injury, soft tissue damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Preparing for Modular Stair & Ramp Installation Guest hosts Billy Lippert and Eli Boyd from Upside Innovations discuss how the Apex System makes ramp deck step installations straightforward and successful.
Episode #4 – Avoiding Soft Tissue Injuries in the Workplace
It’s widely recognized that we are experiencing an aging workforce in the U.S. with about 45% of manufacturing operators over the age of 45. With so many of your employees more prone to soft tissue injury, it’s imperative that you do all you can to keep workers safe. Providing proper safety training, keeping up on regular equipment maintenance, and setting up routines and expectations that do not overexert your workers are good places to start.
In this episode of the SafeRack podcast, hosts Kenny Rogers and Ray Evans discuss how employers can avoid the most common workplace injury, soft tissue damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Our Vertical Market Specialists cover slips, trips, and falls which are often the culprit, especially in the loading industry. Topics discussed include proper balancing of loading arms, regular maintenance and safety training, and the benefits of electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic assist gangways to keep workers safe and avoid unnecessary repetitive knee, elbow, wrist, and back injuries at work.
SafeRack’s Cement, Mining & Flatbed Fall Protection Specialist
An industry expert with 20 years of successful experience in business development and project management, Kenny can provide progressive, out-of-the-box solutions on complex plant projects.
With over 25 years of experience, Ray has been instrumental in collaborating with the top Bulk Chemical companies and works closely with local and national chemical trade associations keeping abreast of the latest legislative news and initiatives in the Agro Chem/Fertilizer, Petro, and Specialty Chemical space.
Podcasts
Truck spotting with Kenny and Ray The significance of proper truck spotting includes topics such as loading arms and hoses, open and closed loading, ISOtainers, specialized safety cages, hatch access, as well as top and bottom unloading from truck and rail.
Railcar Loading BOLOs A discussion about the variables to consider when designing a safe and effective railcar loading solution
Design-Build Services Explore the wide variety of loading and safe access applications we deliver. From simple loading spot upgrades and turn-key installations to more complex retrofits and complete rail, marine, and truck loading/unloading systems, the duo covers common concerns and requirements customers face when considering an install.
Soft Tissue Injuries Solutions for avoiding the most common workplace injury, soft tissue damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Preparing for Modular Stair & Ramp Installation Guest hosts Billy Lippert and Eli Boyd from Upside Innovations discuss how the Apex System makes ramp deck step installations straightforward and successful.
Episode #3 – Design & Build Services for Plant Expansions
In addition to providing a comprehensive list of individual safe access products, we are also able to design, build, and install a complete application when your plant is ready to expand. Regardless of the scope of your expansion project, our wholistic approach will save money by strategically scheduling your installation to reduce downtime and maximize throughput.
In this episode of the SafeRack Podcast, hosts Kenny Rogers and Ray Evans discuss the wide variety of loading and safe access applications we deliver. From simple loading spot upgrades and turn-key installations to more complex retrofits and complete rail, marine, and truck loading/unloading systems, the duo covers common concerns and requirements customers face when considering an install. The importance of taking meticulous measurements to ensure a successful installation and how to decide whether your project will require foundations and support columns are discussed. Also covered is how to avoid the hassle of piecing together additional components such as spill containment, eye wash stations, safety showers, lighting, and more.
SafeRack’s Cement, Mining & Flatbed Fall Protection Specialist
An industry expert with 20 years of successful experience in business development and project management, Kenny can provide progressive, out-of-the-box solutions on complex plant projects.
With over 25 years of experience, Ray has been instrumental in collaborating with the top Bulk Chemical companies and works closely with local and national chemical trade associations keeping abreast of the latest legislative news and initiatives in the Agro Chem/Fertilizer, Petro, and Specialty Chemical space.
Podcasts
Truck spotting with Kenny and Ray The significance of proper truck spotting includes topics such as loading arms and hoses, open and closed loading, ISOtainers, specialized safety cages, hatch access, as well as top and bottom unloading from truck and rail.
Railcar Loading BOLOs A discussion about the variables to consider when designing a safe and effective railcar loading solution
Design-Build Services Explore the wide variety of loading and safe access applications we deliver. From simple loading spot upgrades and turn-key installations to more complex retrofits and complete rail, marine, and truck loading/unloading systems, the duo covers common concerns and requirements customers face when considering an install.
Soft Tissue Injuries Solutions for avoiding the most common workplace injury, soft tissue damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Preparing for Modular Stair & Ramp Installation Guest hosts Billy Lippert and Eli Boyd from Upside Innovations discuss how the Apex System makes ramp deck step installations straightforward and successful.
A podcast about truck spotting and why it’s important.
If you’re in the aggregate or chemical industries, you understand the importance of truck spotting for successful loading operations. Whether your facility manages as few as 25 or as many as 500 trucks per day, adequate safety systems including reliable fall protection and fall prevention for operators have the greatest impact on throughput.
In this episode of SafeRack Podcast, hosts Kenny Rogers and Ray Evans discuss the significance of proper truck spotting including topics such as loading arms and hoses, open and closed loading, ISOtainers, specialized safety cages, hatch access, as well as top and bottom unloading from truck and rail. Kenny and Ray share their years of experience using SafeRack’s best MSHA and OSHA-compliant customer solutions to address safe access challenges in the aggregate and chemical industries.
SafeRack’s Cement, Mining & Flatbed Fall Protection Specialist
An industry expert with 20 years of successful experience in business development and project management, Kenny can provide progressive, out-of-the-box solutions on complex plant projects.
With over 25 years of experience, Ray has been instrumental in collaborating with the top Bulk Chemical companies and works closely with local and national chemical trade associations keeping abreast of the latest legislative news and initiatives in the Agro Chem/Fertilizer, Petro, and Specialty Chemical space.
Podcasts
Truck spotting with Kenny and Ray The significance of proper truck spotting includes topics such as loading arms and hoses, open and closed loading, ISOtainers, specialized safety cages, hatch access, as well as top and bottom unloading from truck and rail.
Railcar Loading BOLOs A discussion about the variables to consider when designing a safe and effective railcar loading solution
Design-Build Services Explore the wide variety of loading and safe access applications we deliver. From simple loading spot upgrades and turn-key installations to more complex retrofits and complete rail, marine, and truck loading/unloading systems, the duo covers common concerns and requirements customers face when considering an install.
Soft Tissue Injuries Solutions for avoiding the most common workplace injury, soft tissue damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Preparing for Modular Stair & Ramp Installation Guest hosts Billy Lippert and Eli Boyd from Upside Innovations discuss how the Apex System makes ramp deck step installations straightforward and successful.
SafeRack secures patent for the innovation GX loading gangway, the world’s most ergonomically advanced truck and railcar gangway.
ANDREWS, SOUTH CAROLINA March 22, 2022 —SixAxis, the global leader in industrial bulk loading safety equipment, has secured a patent on the GX, the most ergonomically advanced and #1 selling gangway in North America. The original G4 gangway was introduced in 2009 and was SafeRack’s flagship product, addressing safety issues presented by other truck and rail loading systems on the market. The GX Gangway was released in 2020, incorporating the proprietary Retractalok system power-assist technology which allows operators to lift and lower the gangway with the push of a foot pedal and the simple pull of a rope. The GX is the next generation in SafeRack’s gangway technology, improving productivity and throughput while enhancing safety for workers in the loading industry.
With repetitive strain injuries topping the list of liabilities reported by industrial employers across the globe, the GX mitigates the need for manual lifting while loading or unloading. Named the Occupational and Health Safety Magazine’s New Product of the Year in October of 2020, the GX claimed the top prize in the Fall Protection/Prevention category.
NEW PRODUCT OF THE YEAR!
The Occupational Health & Safety New Product of the Year awarded to SafeRack’s GX Gangway in the Fall Protection/Prevention category.
SixAxis has provided access and safety systems to the truck, rail, ship, aviation, and aerospace industries using state-of-the-art technology since 2003. Their award-winning products and patents have helped support the efforts of industry-leading Fortune 500 companies such as Boeing, Dow, and Coca-Cola.
About SafeRack & SixAxis
SixAxis was founded by Fred Harmon and Rob Honeycutt in 2002 to deliver high-quality loading rack and fall protection solutions to companies worldwide. In addition to SafeRack, product-specific brands such as ErectaStep, RollaStep, YellowGate, AeroStep, and MarinaStep have been developed to engineer and manufacture innovative products that increase safety and boost productivity. For information about how SixAxis is changing the world of manufacturing, visit sixaxisllc.com.
Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, South Carolina’s first female Republican Lt. Governor visited SafeRack headquarters in Andrews, SC at an International Women’s Day event co-hosted by our parent company SixAxis and Women in Manufacturing (WiM), the only national and global trade association dedicated to supporting women working in the manufacturing industry. Lt. Governor Evette spoke about her entrepreneurial and political journey and the importance of empowering women to take on leadership roles in the manufacturing sector.
Prior to her government service, Evette founded Quality Business Solutions, Inc. (QBS), a payroll, human resources, and benefits services firm headquartered in Travelers Rest. Under her leadership as President and CEO, QBS has grown exponentially, going from start-up to earning a spot on the Inc. 5000 listing of the nation’s fastest-growing small businesses. Her company has also been repeatedly honored among the fastest growing and best places to work in the State of South Carolina.
SixAxis CEO Jeff Reichert welcomed the crowd of nearly 50 manufacturing professionals from across the state, and from around the country to the plant and Innovation Center, introducing the Lt. Governor, thanking her for her leadership in encouraging more manufacturing in the state. “I am truly honored to have hosted the Honorable Lt. Governor Pamela Evette at our plant this week. Her message on women’s leadership was inspirational. Having her meet our team, and showing her our manufacturing plant was a great experience. Opportunities like these make us stronger as a company and as a community,” remarked Reichert after the event.
SafeRack Public Sector/Contract Manager and WiM SC Event Director Michele Thompson had this to say about the sold-out event, “Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette is an inspirational role model for Women in Manufacturing. I was truly honored to hear her story and the exciting goals she and Gov. McMaster have for the future of manufacturing in South Carolina.”
Rob Honeycutt, Co-founder & CEO of SixAxis Manufacturing
SixAxis LLC announced today that Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer Rob Honeycutt , will step down from his current role at the end of 2021. The company’s Board of Directors appointed Jeff Reichert, president of the company’s SafeRack brand, to succeed Honeycutt as CEO effective Jan. 1, 2022.
Honeycutt will remain a key member of the Board of Directors, providing unparalleled insight and guidance to the company, drawing on his nearly 20 years of experience leading the firm.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, the Executive Management Team and the approximately 500 SixAxis employees, we want to thank Rob for his leadership, vision and impact on the organization in creating a world-class operation, from its inception to what it is today,” said SixAxis Executive Chairman Ken Walker. “The Board is sincerely grateful to Rob for his dedication to SixAxis as CEO, and we are looking forward to his continuing input and oversight at Board level”.
Reichert’s selection is the culmination of a robust, multi-year leadership development and succession planning process that helped create a strong management team with depth in all functions, ensuring a seamless transition.
“The combination of the talented SixAxis leadership team, the customer-driven durable end-market commercial portfolio that has been created, as well as a strong balance sheet, has positioned SixAxis for continued success through this transition and beyond,” added Walker.
“It has been an honor to be the co-Founder and CEO of SixAxis since its inception,” said Honeycutt. “I want to offer my sincere thanks to Fred Harmon, my partner and friend, and to our employees whose hard work and dedication have allowed us to achieve so much over the last 20 years.
“I also want to thank our customers, shareholders and the Board of Directors for their ongoing support,” added Honeycutt. “I have worked with Jeff for many years and know firsthand that he will be an excellent leader for SixAxis. I look forward to working closely with Jeff and the Board to execute the exciting plans we have in place.”
“I want to thank Rob for his visionary leadership and guidance at SixAxis, as well as the Board for its confidence in me, as I step into this role,” said Reichert. “I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to work with our talented leadership team and employees around the world to advance the SixAxis growth strategy.”
Honeycutt’s humble beginnings began with a childhood filled with adversity, and relocating dozens of times around the Southeast. He did not complete college, and instead became a door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesman in rural South Carolina before finally finding his spiritual home in industrial sales with an equipment company located in Florence, S.C. He quickly rose to become one of the company’s top salesmen while still in his early 20s.
It was during this time that Honeycutt met his future business partner, Fred Harmon. They founded SafeRack and launched their first brand of products in 2002 and2003, then started growing the company while facing almost impossible odds. The passionate vision involved investing nearly everything they had into a catalog of products, all while embracing customers with unparalleled care and solving complicated safety and productivity problems.
Honeycutt and Harmon assembled a small group of believers, and together they overcame start-up and unpredictable growing pains. SafeRack opened its dedicated manufacturing facility in Andrews, South Carolina, in 2005. With limited cash flow, they began operations on mostly dirt floors and began to carve out a reputation for providing innovative safety solutions for the truck and railcar loading industry – with unmatched customer service.
Their customer-centric philosophy and persistence prevailed. They began to dominate the marketplace and built the SafeRack brand into the world’s premier provider for loading-terminal safety equipment. During this time Honeycutt succeeded at bringing to life a world-class manufacturing facility to support the continued growth of the company. As an out-of-the-box thinker with no preconceptions, he was able to secure dozens of patents that would enjoy double-digit annual growth to this day.
Over the past two decades, Honeycutt and Harmon oversaw the development of many successful additional brands and products within the industrial safety space. Many are used in facilities around the world today, such as ErectaStep (the patented modular access platform and stairs system) and YellowGate (the patented industrial safety gate line of products).
During this journey the pair also founded a unique software company, creating sales and CRM tools to enable customers to visualize their proposed solution ahead of receiving a quote for the product. This dramatically improved the collaborative and consultative sales process, about which Harmon and Honeycutt are both so passionate. While neither are involved in the software business today, the company still operates in Charleston, South Carolina, and the solutions developed for (and with) SixAxis are still being used to support continued growth in many industries.
The company’s main offices remain in their Andrews manufacturing plant. Other teams such as Engineering and Customer Service work out of an office in Sumter, South Carolina, while an office in England supports international sales. More than 60 sales professionals are located across the U.S. serving North American customers.
In June of 2021, SixAxis acquired Upside Innovations of West Chester, Ohio, further expanding the SixAxis product family to include ADA-compliant ramps and stairs. While the markets served marginally overlap those already enjoyed by SixAxis, the complementary products present further growth opportunities and strong penetration points into the modular building industry.
The dirt floor days are gone, and SixAxis employs nearly 500 people. The company has expanded to over 300,000 square feet of high-tech manufacturing space and enjoys a multi-national sales footprint in over 50 countries. Over 11,000 customers have worked with SixAxis, and over the last 20 years more than $1billion worth of equipment has been supplied around the world, improving Safety and productivity for our workforce. And the company is still less than 20 years old.
Honeycutt resides in Pawleys Island, South Carolina, along with his wife Julie and their daughters Elizabeth and Mary.
Jeff Reichert, CEO of SixAxis Manufacturing About Jeff Reichert:
Jeff Reichert is a member of the SixAxis executive leadership team and currently serves as the president of . He manages the day-to-day operations of the company, in addition to overseeing business strategy for the company.
Prior to SafeRack, Reichert served as the vice president of a chemical and industrial business unit of a large loading arm manufacturing company, and spent the previous 15 years at a major aircraft engine manufacturer and a Japanese machine tool company.
Reichert attended Bowling Green State University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Operations and Materials Management, and a Master of Business Administration in Operations Management.
Pawleys, S.C., is home for Reichert and his wife Cindy. They have four children: Aaron, Andrew, Adam and Annie.
About FCP:
Falfurrias Capital Partners is a private equity investment firm focused on acquiring or investing in a diverse portfolio of growth-oriented middle-market companies.
As a team of operators, we leverage our significant, real-world experience to bring measurable contributions and create lasting value for both our portfolio companies and limited partners.
By partnering with the most respected experts in their fields, we immerse ourselves in the industries which we invest in, identify the strongest growth opportunities, and rigorously test and learn using our expertise, data and tireless investigation. For more information, visit www.falfurriascapital.com.
SAFERACK RECEIVES SAFETY AWARD OF MERIT FROM FABRICATORS & MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION
Andrews, SC., August 9, 2021 – Download Press Release
SafeRack was recently chosen to receive a 2021 Safety Award of Merit from the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International (FMA). Open to all FMA company members, the FMA/CNA Annual Safety Awards recognize metal fabrication companies that adhere to excellence in safety.
Sponsored by CNA, the endorsed business insurance carrier for FMA, the Awards are designed to promote safety in the industry, and winners are selected by the FMA Safety Council. The Safety Award of Merit is given to companies posting an injury and illness incidence rate for the reporting period that is better than the published Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) rate by 10 percent or greater, based on their NAICS code.
“I congratulate SafeRack on winning a Safety Award of Merit,” said Edward Youdell, president and CEO of FMA. “Safety is clearly a priority for the company. They set a good example for others in the industry. FMA and CNA are proud to recognize all our safety award winners.”
To be eligible to receive recognition, companies were required to submit OSHA Form 300A, Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses, for the period Jan. 1, 2020, through Dec. 31, 2020. Firms of all sizes were eligible. Winners were selected based on North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code categories and BLS injury and illness incidence rates.
About FMA
Based in Elgin Ill., FMA is a professional organization with over 2,500 members working together to improve the metal fabricating and forming industry. Founded in 1970, FMA brings metal fabricators and fabricating equipment manufacturers together through technology councils, educational programs, networking events, and the FABTECH® trade show. Visit www.fmamfg.org for more information.
About SafeRack & SixAxis
SixAxis was founded by Fred Harmon and Rob Honeycutt in 2002 to deliver high-quality loading rack and fall protection solutions to companies around the world. In addition to SafeRack, product-specific brands such as ErectaStep, RollaStep, YellowGate, AeroStep, and MarinaStep have been developed to engineer and manufacture innovative products that increase safety and boost productivity. For information about how SixAxis is changing the world of manufacturing, visit sixaxisllc.com.
Falfurrias Capital Partners’ SixAxis manufacturing to expand safety and access product solutions with the acquisition of Upside Innovations
Deal combines complementary firms in modular, mass-customized manufacturing of ramps, stairs, platforms and handrails
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA (June 2, 2021) –
Charlotte-based private equity firm Falfurrias Capital Partners today announced it has facilitated the add-on acquisition of Upside Innovations by its portfolio company SixAxis LLC, which is headquartered in Andrews, South Carolina. Terms were not disclosed.
Based in the Cincinnati suburb of West Chester, Ohio, Upside Innovations designs, manufactures and installs modular, customized aluminum stairs, ramps and canopies. The company’s product line is a perfect complement for SixAxis, the leading manufacturer of safety and fall protection equipment, loading racks and other industrial solutions that was purchased by Falfurrias in 2017.
“Upside Innovations does for accessibility what SixAxis does for workplace safety, so the businesses are extremely compatible,” said SixAxis CEO Rob Honeycutt, who says his firm of 300+ employees had been looking for its first acquisition for some time. “Both companies share a similar DNA, an entrepreneurial spirit and a customer-centric philosophy. We both rely upon advanced modular design and manufacturing capabilities to produce sound, highly engineered solutions in a fraction of the time a true custom fabrication would require, which is a significant competitive advantage in the market.”
Upside Innovations founder Kevin Sharp will remain as president, reporting to Honeycutt, and the company’s 65-person headquarters and manufacturing facility will remain in West Chester. No workforce reductions are anticipated as a result of the merger; in fact, the principals anticipate considerable growth potential from the new partnership.
“We are excited to be joining a company where we can benefit from their advanced capabilities in product design, materials sourcing, sales and marketing, human resources and other resources that will help us grow,” said Sharp, a mechanical engineer who was inspired to start the company by the accessibility challenges facing his polio-surviving grandfather. “This partnership promises tremendous growth opportunities for our company and our people.”
The deal is consistent with Falfurrias’ “Industry First” investment approach of identifying categories with significant growth potential, then making strategic acquisitions that yield enhanced intellectual and operational efficiencies for greater financial performance.
“We see tremendous synergies between these two companies,” said Falfurrias Partner Chip Johnson. “They employ many of the same design and manufacturing principles but target different yet complementary customers. And Upside’s location in Ohio will be advantageous in terms of access to materials, shipping and human capital. This partnership makes us better positioned to capitalize on the multibillion-dollar market for highly engineered safety and accessibility solutions.”
About SixAxis LLC
SixAxis was founded by Fred Harmon and Rob Honeycutt in 2002 to deliver high-quality loading rack and fall protection solutions to companies around the world. The company has developed a portfolio of 13 diverse brands including SafeRack, ErectaStep, RollaStep, PerfectaStep, AeroStep and MarinaStep, all created to engineer and manufacture advanced products that increase safety and boost productivity. Additionally, SixAxis software solutions are engineered to simplify technology and propel industry leaders worldwide. For more information about how SixAxis is changing the world of manufacturing with a diverse array of innovative products and solutions that are made to give your business a competitive edge, visit www.sixaxisllc.com.
About Upside Innovations
Upside Innovations was founded in 2009 by Kevin Sharp, a mechanical engineer who who grew up watching his grandfather, a World War II and polio survivor, struggle to gain access to everyday places. That experience was the inspiration used to find better solutions for designing and building ADA-compliant ramp and step systems. Since the beginning, Upside’s focus has been to fill a gap in the market by providing a high quality, attractive ramp system, while providing world-class service to the industry. For more information about the company, visit www.upsideinnovations.com.
About Falfurrias Capital Partners
Falfurrias Capital Partners is a Charlotte-based private equity investment firm founded in 2006 by Hugh McColl Jr., former chairman and CEO of Bank of America; Marc Oken, former CFO of Bank of America; and Managing Partner Ed McMahan. The firm has raised approximately $1 billion across four funds and invests in growing, middle-market businesses in sectors where the firm’s operational resources, relationships and sector expertise can be employed to complement portfolio company executive teams in support of growth objectives. Falfurrias Capital Partners employs a proprietary, research-based process called “Industry First” to identify markets with durable growth trends, construct a thesis based on research findings, and partner with management teams to create strategic value. For more information, visit www.falfurriascapital.com.
SixAxis launches Liquid Transfer Group, welcoming Joe Natale as Senior Business Development & Operations Specialist
Andrews, South Carolina— March 31, 2021 SixAxis announced the launch of Liquid Transfer Group, a consulting group that specializes in terminal loading projects. The appointment of Joe Natale as Senior Business Development and Operations specialist helped kick off the new venture this week. SixAxis’ innovative products have been giving businesses in all sectors the competitive edge globally since 2003. Their award-winning products and patents support the efforts of industry-leading Fortune 500 companies such as Boeing, Dow, and Coca Cola to name just a few.
SixAxis President, Jeff Reichert enthusiastically announced the new business development venture earlier this month.
“Our nation’s most prominent suppliers in the chemical, industrial, and midstream oil and gas industries will benefit enormously from this expansion of our capabilities,” Reichert explained. “With Joe Natale’s extensive experience in commercial and project development, terminal operations, and logistics, combined with his strategic thinking and strong work ethic, we’re looking forward to offering efficiencies and better return on investment than any other solution provider in the industry.”
Joe Natale has successfully managed asset expansion projects as well as various green and brownfield development projects, most recently for US Development Group, Bridger Logistics, United Energy Trading, and Blackline Midstream. “We’ve worked closely with Joe on a number of other projects,” remarks SixAxis Co-Founder and CEO Rob Honeycutt. “His ability to coordinate and nurture productive and high-level strategic relationships with internal and external entities was a perfect fit for the new position.”
Liquid Transfer Group specializes in bulk terminal loading preplanning, feed, and feasibility studies, and consults in control systems implementation across vertical markets. Our team of experts will be identifying the right solutions by integrating site layout, platform design, loading arm engineering, as well as implementing grounding systems, meters, valves, and other loading accessories. This team has served clients representing some of the nation’s most prominent players in the chemical, industrial, and midstream oil and gas industries. “I look forward to leading the LTG team, building on the SixAxis brand and legacy already in place,” says Natale.
About SixAxis
SixAxis was founded by Fred Harmon and Rob Honeycutt in 2002 to deliver high-quality loading rack and fall protection solutions to companies around the world. Under their leadership, SixAxis’ SafeRack brand opened its first manufacturing facility in 2005. By 2008, SafeRack earned a place on Inc.’s “Fastest-growing Private Companies in America” list. SafeRack is just one of 13 diverse brands developed under parent company, SixAxis. In addition to SafeRack, product-specific brands such as ErectaStep, RollaStep, PerfectaStep, AeroStep, and MarinaStep have been developed to engineer and manufacture advanced products that increase safety and boost productivity. Additionally, SixAxis software solutions are engineered to simplify technology and propel industry leaders worldwide.
For more information about how SixAxis is changing the world of manufacturing with a diverse array of innovative products and solutions that are made to give your business a competitive edge, visit https://www.sixaxisllc.com. For more information about Liquid Transfer Group please visit https://liquidtransfergroup.com/.
Falfurrias Capital Partners’ SixAxis manufacturing to expand safety and access product solutions with the acquisition of Upside Innovations
