About Us
Americana is a family-owned company making high-quality recreational amenities for communities across the country. Our products are American-made and engineered to meet the demands of outdoor living. From shelters and seating to sports equipment, Americana offers architects, general contractors, and other clients a full range of beautiful and fully customizable furnishings to create a complete outdoor environment that helps communities work, play, and live better.
Company History
In 1946, returning from the battlegrounds of World War II, bomber pilot Milo “Rip” Hindman founded Hindman Manufacturing in downtown Centralia, Illinois, pioneering the production of Aluminum Awnings and Patio Covers.
During the mobile home boom of the 1960s, Hindman expanded its offerings to include aluminum skirting, metal stoops, and freestanding carports, necessitating a move to the old skating rink in Central City, Illinois, where an additional 60,000 sq ft of manufacturing and warehouse space was added.
In 1985, as Milo prepared for retirement, a consortium of seven investors acquired Hindman Manufacturing, ensuring its continuity within the community. Renamed Americana Building Products, the company appointed Gerald Purcell, a seasoned metallurgical engineer, as president and CEO.
Under Gerald’s leadership, Americana Building Products underwent significant expansion. In 1991, the acquisition of Shelter Products and Shade & Comfort Est. In 1950 by T.J. Bottom from Cuba, Missouri, marked the company’s entry into shelter products and fabric awnings.
In 1997, Americana Building Products relocated its headquarters to Salem, Illinois, constructing a state-of-the-art 120,000 sq ft facility. Concurrently, Americana Industrial Coatings was established to elevate the quality of its paint offerings, including powder coating services.
The growth trajectory continued with the 2013 acquisition of PW Athletic Mfg. Est. In 1919 by James Patterson, a Mesa, Arizona-based company founded in 1919, augmenting Americana’s portfolio with outdoor sports equipment and site furnishings.
In 2017, Americana Building Products underwent a strategic rebranding, transforming into Americana Outdoors Inc. This shift streamlined the company’s identity, encompassing all divisions under one cohesive umbrella.
Expanding its footprint on the West Coast, Americana acquired LA Steelcraft Est. In 1940 by Stan Germain of Pasadena, California, in 2019, a move that further solidified its position in the sports equipment and site furnishings market.
In 2021, the strategic acquisition of Southeast Iowa Aluminum Est. In 1984 by Frank Sanders, bolstered Americana’s manufacturing capabilities with expertise in aluminum and brass casting. Americana then acquired Specialty Painting & Blasting in Plainfield, Illinois, in 2023, enhancing its powder coat and liquid painting capacity and reducing lead times for customers.
January 2024 marked a significant milestone with the acquisition of a new manufacturing facility located on the corner of Signal Butte & Germann Road in Mesa, Arizona, poised to improve lead times and freight costs for West Coast clientele.
And in March 2024, Americana proudly welcomes Aluma-Line Inc Est. In 1977 by Dean & Ron Schneider, into its fold. With a rich heritage dating back to 1977, Aluma-Line Inc brings extensive experience in the shelter and shade business, further enriching Americana’s offerings and strengthening its market position on the west coast.
Brand Pillars
Engineered for Outdoor Living
We build products for every climate, every terrain, and every purpose to meet the demands of outdoor living.
Shaping an Entire Outdoor Experience
From shelters and seating to sports equipment, Americana creates complete outdoor environments that enhance the quality of life for communities, promoting productivity, leisure, and well-being.
Providing Service that Comes Naturally
At Americana everyone is family and our clients are friends. When you care about the people around you and love what you do, great and knowledgeable service just comes naturally.
Leadership Team
Gerald Purcell - President
As the President of Americana Outdoors Inc, Gerald Purcell brings decades of experience and a visionary leadership style to the helm. With a deep understanding of the industry and a passion for innovation, Gerald guides the company’s strategic direction, fostering growth and maintaining a culture of excellence. His commitment to customer satisfaction and operational efficiency drives Americana Outdoors Inc forward, ensuring continued success and market leadership.
Geff Purcell - VP of Operations
Geff Purcell serves as the Vice President of Operations at Americana Outdoors Inc, where he leverages his extensive experience and expertise to optimize the company’s operational efficiency. With a focus on process improvement and resource optimization, Geff ensures that Americana Outdoors Inc’s manufacturing and logistics operations run smoothly and effectively. His leadership ensures that the company meets and exceeds customer expectations while maintaining high standards of quality and reliability.
Melanie Johnson - VP of Finance & Marketing
As the Vice President of Finance & Marketing, Melanie Johnson plays a pivotal role in Americana Outdoors Inc’s success. With a keen eye for detail and a strategic mindset, Melanie oversees the financial health of the company while spearheading marketing initiatives to enhance brand visibility and drive growth. Her dedication to fiscal responsibility and creative marketing strategies contributes significantly to Americana Outdoors Inc’s continued expansion and market presence.
Anthony Purcell - VP of Sales
As the Vice President of Sales, Anthony Purcell plays a key role in driving revenue growth and expanding Americana Outdoors Inc’s market reach. With a customer-centric approach and a deep understanding of market dynamics, Anthony leads the sales team in developing and implementing strategies to acquire new customers and nurture existing relationships. His leadership and strategic insights enable Americana Outdoors Inc to consistently meet sales targets and achieve sustainable growth.
Kevin Cook - VP of Business Development
Kevin Cook serves as the Vice President of Business Development at Americana Outdoors Inc, where he focuses on identifying new opportunities for growth and expansion. With a forward-thinking approach and a knack for strategic partnerships, Kevin explores innovative avenues for business development, from exploring new markets to forging strategic alliances. His leadership and entrepreneurial spirit drive Americana Outdoors Inc’s efforts to diversify and capitalize on emerging trends, positioning the company for long-term success.
Sales Team
Luke Purcell - National Sales Manager
Territories Covered: California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Idaho.
Phil Piper - Regional Project Manager
Territories Covered: Canada, Colorado, New Mexico, Florida, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Dave Ashby - Regional Project Manager
Territories Covered: Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky.
Jay Henke - Regional Project Manager
Territories Covered: Western Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, and Wyoming.
Erin Witzel - Regional Project Manager
Territories Covered: Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
Nick Caudle - Regional Project Manager
Territories Covered: Eastern Illinois, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.
Nick Purcell - Regional Project Manager
Territories Covered: California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Idaho.
