Part VII
In 1994, the Bell family sold Le-Al-Co to the Caradon Corporation in London. The facility in Lebanon produced windows and doors for another year with many of the same employees, but the operation eventually closed. Le-Al-Co products are no longer made and can no longer be purchased in cities across the nation. The sounds that filled the building at 301 Hartmann Drive are no longer heard – saws cutting aluminum; people talking in the break room; music blaring from the speakers; forklifts zooming around; telephones ringing in the office.
It would be easy to think that Charles Bell’s dream ended when the last product left the assembly line, but that is underestimating both Bell and his dream. Growing up, he wanted to succeed and possessed the necessary work ethic and dedication. Those, along with opportunity and help from others, allowed him to achieve the dream.
In the business world, success is measured by wealth, and, in life, success is measured in respect. Bell gained both through his work and commitment to the people who he worked alongside. This can be seen through the numerous industry awards that Le-Al-Co received, including the Home Depot Vendor of the Year in 1984; the National Home Center Show Award of Distinction in 1985; the DIY Home Warehouse Special Recognition Award in 1991; the Marvin’s Vendor of the Year in 1991; and, the Scotty’s Partner of the Year in 1992.
Production at Le-Al-Co has stopped, but, through the memories of the people who worked there, it will remain long after the last door and window are replaced.
SBI: A Thinning Crowd 
Nicely written.. the part by part had me thinking about it at times.
Now that I am back to using computers, I can confidently press ‘like’ button too,. 🙂
Thanks. I researched this several years ago and gave the story to my dad. It brought back a lot of memories for him.
I too had my own business for a long time, it still lives on but very hard to see someone else’s name there where mine had been. Loved the story. Cheers Sue
Thank you. When we sold the business, it was like my dad watching a child go away. It’s a tough thing to do.
I got back today after weeks to catch up on the blogs that I follow as well as to resume writing my own blogs. I enjoyed this multi-part narrative of yours thoroughly Rick. Very well written. I will go back for a second read.
Thank you. I’m happy that you enjoyed it. It was fun to research and write about.