Nelson A. Taylor put the finishing touches on his first custom canvas piece in 1908, a century ago. Ever since then, the Taylor Made name has been known for its quality, innovation and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, says Dennis Flint, President of the Taylor Made Group. "As we move into our 100th year of business, our company looks forward to celebrating a rich history of diversity within and dedication to the world of boating."
From its inception as a canvas business in 1908, it was Nelson's vision for the company to take an aggressive stance on product development-unveiling many uniquely creative and original canvas offerings. In 1946, upon the founder's passing, his son Willard Taylor was named company president. It was from this point forward and under Willard's leadership that Taylor Made began to grow and expand rapidly. Willard Taylor brought with him a decisive commitment to the burgeoning recreational boating market, along with a quest to push design and technology ever forward with new applications, processes and products.
"From the introduction of the first wraparound acrylic windshield for motorboats in 1951, to countless advancements in glass bending, stainless steel welding and other technologies that have defined the modern era of boat windshield design, Taylor Made has been a leader in addressing the unique challenges of the marine market," says Jim Taylor, Chairman of the Taylor Made Group.
To this day, Taylor Made Systems-together with recent acquisitions, Trend Marine Products Ltd. and WaterBonnet Mfg., Inc.-is the world's largest manufacturer of marine glazing systems and sets the pace for advancements in the styling and design of boat windshields, windows, doors, hatches, power roof systems, portlights and more. Taylor Made Products is the world's leading supplier of boat fenders and buoys as well as one of the largest and most innovative suppliers of marine aftermarket products, including boat covers, bimini tops, dock products, flags, hardware and more. TaylorBrite utilizes proprietary technologies, such as LED and cold-cathode lighting, to provide advanced lighting systems for marine and other markets. Its products are setting new records for service life and reliability.
The business directives initiated a century ago by Nelson A. Taylor are now carried on by the current generation of Taylors-Jim Taylor, Chairman, and John Taylor, Secretary-as well as Taylor Made Group President, Dennis Flint and many other long-time, committed executives and associates. "Solidly grounded in our rich legacy and with our ideals firmly in place, we look forward to an exciting future as we continue to diversify and adapt while retaining our dedication to the marine industry," said Flint.
