Acme Brick Company re-introduced its newly updated Bennett Plant to employees on Nov. 15. A multimillion-dollar program, which began in June, will increase the plant’s efficiency by 35 percent.
The plant, built at the site of Acme’s founding, in 1891, is in Parker County, near the town of Millsap, approximately 40 minutes’ drive from Fort Worth. It is named, fittingly, for Acme’s founder, George Bennett.
The current Bennett Plant began operation in 1996. It was built alongside, and ultimately replaced, an older facility where brick were fired in batches, in round “beehive” shaped kilns. At today’s Bennett Plant, brick are produced continuously, moving through the long tunnel kiln on special kiln cars.
“At this site, my predecessor George Bennett found all the materials needed to produce brick of the highest quality,” said Ed Watson, Acme Brick Company's {resident and CEO. “That’s why he named the company Acme, which means the highest point.
"Several important factors determine whether brick may be produced profitably," he said. "Aside from good plant facilities, adequate knowledge, and continuing demand, the most vital items needed are: clay or shale, fuel for burning, a favorable labor market, good transportation, and proximity to a growing market area. As far as clay reserves go, we have several generations worth of reserves available, even though mining began in 1891.
“Then as now,” he said, “our region’s growing population demands an exterior that is durable, maintenance-free and permanent. Genuine brick is the only product that meets these demands, and these upgrades will help us meet our customers’ needs.”
To mark the occasion, employees were treated to lunch and plant tours.
About Acme Brick Company
Acme Brick Company, founded in 1891, is the world’s largest U.S.-owned brick manufacturer. It operates 15 brick plants in four states and sells quality building material and design products at over 50 Acme Brick Tile & Stone public showrooms across 13 states in the Southwest and Southeast. Acme is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. For more information visit brick.com.
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