Family-owned Henderson businesses with a national presence are committed to community

This article was written for our sponsor, Henderson-Vance Economic Development.

When most people think about Henderson, NC, the first things that come to mind are its great location, picturesque landscape, and a plethora of outdoor activities. While Henderson is known for its recreational lake assets and small-town charm, it has also proven to be a time-tested location where local businesses have been able to find national success. While some businesses are just discovering Henderson with its small-town atmosphere and convenient proximity to I-85 and major cities like Raleigh, many businesses have been calling Henderson home for generations such as Alumadock and Hoyle’s Tire and Axle. These businesses, both with national distribution, use their impact to give back to the community that helped them succeed.

Alumadock

A family-owned and operated company, Alumadock’s parent company, Robco, was founded in 1983 by Thomas Roberson, CEO. For nearly two decades, Roberson’s sons, Michael and Hunter have been instrumental in growing operations. Michael Roberson serves as president while Hunter Roberson is VP of Manufacturing.

The company specializes in building aluminum docks for clients such as the US Air Force and Procter & Gamble, among many others. While the company is based in North Carolina, its docks have been sought after by customers both locally and nationally. With Henderson’s close proximity to major transportation routes, the area is a perfect hub for Alumadock.

"We like to build things," said Michael Roberson. "Whether it's building docks, buildings, or building the character and morale of our employees. A lot of our work is blue-collar work, and we get people who may have faced some challenges in their lives and didn’t have a solid family structure. Honestly, that's one of the best parts of my job.” He continued; "It’s rewarding to help someone make their life better."

The company is committed to supporting its employees, many of which are from the Henderson area. This sense of community drives Alumadock and does not stop with its employees. "A vibrant downtown is the epicenter and heartbeat of the community. My dad was born and raised here; we both love the town. We wanted to give back by building an amphitheater that will be a large space that will bring the community together for worship, community gatherings, festivals, and other events to try to reignite downtown," said Roberson.

For Roberson, this contribution will support Downtown Henderson’s revitalization and make the place he calls home a little more beautiful.

Hoyle’s Tire & Axle

Hoyle's Tire and Axle is a third-generation family-owned business that has been operating in Henderson since 1984. "My grandad, Donny Hoyle, started the business with only a pickup truck and trailer and would buy mobile home axles and tires. After his brother came on as an owner in the 90s, my dad eventually took on the business around 2010, and I help run it today," said Dylan Hoyle, Vice President. Since the company’s beginnings, it has grown to be one of the largest suppliers of new and remanufactured axles and tires to the U.S. manufactured housing industry.

Starting in an 800-square-foot building and now, as they approach the company's 40th anniversary, working out of a 128,000-square-foot building, Hoyle’s Tire and Axle is a shining example of the opportunities available in Henderson. Hoyle’s Tire and Axle also takes pride in giving back to the community, supporting Vance County High School sports and the Sandy Creek Baptist Church. And while the company provides axles and tires to help those across the nation, they also are helping grow the local Henderson community. "Our employees are predominantly all from the Henderson area. It's nice to be able to work with people from your community and play a small factor in bettering the Henderson community," said Hoyle.

Alumadock and Hoyle’s Tire and Axle are just two examples of businesses born in Henderson that have been able to build a national presence, yet remain committed to community values. In Henderson, business owners can have it all: national success, the ability to make a difference, unmatched landscape, location, and community. With access to the resources a business needs to succeed, Henderson fosters an environment where organizations and philanthropy can grow. At the same time, Henderson’s community spirit shines through and makes it clear that it is a fantastic small town to live, work, and do business in.

This article was written for our sponsor, Henderson-Vance Economic Development.