Founded in 1984 by Hugh and Judy Watson, Assembly Fasteners began its journey as Tropic Fasteners. Nearly two decades later, the company rebranded to Assembly Fasteners in 2005 to better align with its growing business and evolving customer needs. The company's roots can be traced back to Hugh’s early experience in the fastener industry, which began in 1977 at AFCOM, where he honed his skills in shipping, quality control, and sales management.

When AFCOM faced financial troubles, Hugh decided to take a leap of faith, encouraged by his family, and established his own company. What started as a small venture quickly took off—within six months, Judy was able to leave her job at Sprint to join AFI full-time, managing the company’s finances.

Initially focused on serving the sheet metal fabrication industry and leading OEMs across the southern United States, AFI distinguished itself with its unwavering commitment to superior products and unmatched customer service. The introduction of Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) services became a game-changer, setting AFI apart from competitors and solidifying its reputation for service excellence. Over the years, AFI expanded its footprint, opening additional operations in North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, and Tennessee.

After 40 years of steady growth, AFI entered an exciting new chapter through its acquisition by Endries International. This strategic partnership with Endries, a leader in global sourcing and distribution, marks a pivotal turning point in AFI’s history.

A New Era with Endries International Inc.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Endries International as we look to build on our strong reputation for service excellence these past 40 years,” said Hugh Watson, Founder and CEO (current GM) of AFI. “This partnership marks a new chapter for AFI, one that will enable us to grow nationwide and continue to provide exceptional value to our employees and customers well into the future. Together with Endries, we are poised to bring innovative solutions that will shape the industry and drive long-term success.”

The acquisition by Endries not only brings AFI the resources needed to scale its operations but also opens up new possibilities for nationwide expansion. By leveraging Endries' extensive global reach, robust sourcing capabilities, and cutting-edge technology, AFI can now broaden its product offerings and streamline its VMI solutions.

With this newfound synergy, AFI is poised to serve a broader market, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and delivering greater value to customers across the United States. The combination of AFI’s deep industry expertise and Endries' technological innovations promises to unlock new revenue streams, fueling growth and solidifying AFI's position as a leader in the fastener and industrial hardware industry.

Together, Assembly Fasteners and Endries are committed to driving innovation, exceeding customer expectations, and shaping the future of the industry for years to come.

Click HERE to download the official acquisition announcement from Endries International Inc.

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