Celebrating the Past with an Eye Toward the Future

When Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company celebrated its centennial in 2014, it pledged to continue innovating as an industry pioneer—following the same core values and principles established by founders E.W. and H.C. Bennett. A decade into its second century, Utility Trailer continues innovating and developing revolutionary products while undergoing exciting changes.

The past ten years have seen many manufacturing and production milestones eclipsed. To maintain its position as North America’s number one reefer manufacturer with more than a 50% market share, Utility opened a third refrigerated trailer manufacturing plant. Located in Piedras Negras, Mexico, the state-of-the-art facility continues to help Utility meet growing demand and increase efficiencies.

Utility Trailer also launched several new products to its line of light weight yet durable trailers and patented aerodynamic technologies:
● The dry van line introduced the 4000D-X Composite® TBR, a tall-bottom-rail dry van designed for heavy-duty applications.
● The flatbed line introduced the next-generation patented combo flatbeds, the 4000AE® and 4000AE® Drop Deck.
● While the USS-120A-4 underwent an innovative redesign, and the patented Utility Aerodynamic Tail 2 (UAT2) was introduced. Both were rigorously tested for proven fuel efficiency.

Several additional component upgrades and a wealth of newly available options throughout Utility Trailer’s product line prove that “Continuous Improvement” is more than just a mantra. It’s a foundational part of the company culture.

“We have a strong, unwavering belief that our trailers should be held at the highest of standards. For that reason, our trailers and products are always tested, retested, and tested again to ensure they consistently and reliably achieve an unprecedented level of dependability,” said Utility Trailer President and CEO, Jeff Bennett.

Utility Trailer achieved a record-breaking year in 2019, producing nearly 52,000 trailers. In 2020, however, the global COVID-19 pandemic halted economic development, with businesses closed and social distancing protocols in place. Fortunately, as a vehicle manufacturer operating in several sectors deemed essential, Utility remained open and able to serve the nation’s critical supply chain operations.

Exciting changes began in 2023, with fourth- and fifth-generation members of the Bennett family taking on new leadership roles at Utility. “The Bennett family never rested on the laurels of success from previous generations. Even today, they still take on a ‘startup’ approach and mindset. They are working tirelessly to continue producing the highest-quality trailers on the road and provide the best parts and service through the Utility dealer network,” said Mark Glasgow, Utility Trailer Chief of Sales.

In 2024, commemorating its 110th year, everyone at Utility Trailer remains wholly committed to the timeless traditions and values established in 1914. With an ongoing commitment to excellence, Utility’s innovative transportation solutions will shape the future for generations to come.

L-R: Jeff Bennett, CEO; Steve Bennett, COO; Todd Bennett, CFO; Andrew Bennett, Vice President