The Gray Legacy 100+ Years of Quality Service!
The Gray family’s American manufacturing story began in 1893, when William Gray moved his family from Ontario, Canada, to Rochester, New York, after emigrating from Scotland. Three of his sons, Malcolm, William H., and Daniel, learned the stamping trade at Rochester Stamping Company before founding Atlantic Stamping Co. in 1903.
Over the next century, the Gray family pioneered advancements in metal products manufacturing, including the establishment of Rochester Can Company, where Malcolm Gray implemented the five-day work week later popularized by Henry Ford. William H. Gray and his sons went on to establish Gray Metal Products, Inc. in 1932, specializing in sheet metal ductwork and building a reputation for innovation and quality.
Through each generation, the Gray family grew its companies with a dedication to craftsmanship, patented innovations, and family leadership. Today, multiple Gray-owned companies—including Gray Flex Systems and Snap-Rite Manufacturing—continue this legacy across the HVAC industry.
Gray Family
Legacy Timeline
1893
William Gray moves his family from Ontario, Canada, to Rochester, NY, after emigrating from Scotland.
1903
William’s sons—Malcolm, William H., and Daniel Gray—establish Atlantic Stamping Co. in Rochester, specializing in stamped metal products.
1909
Malcolm Gray helps found Rochester Can Company, where he implements the five-day work week (later adopted by Henry Ford).
1932
William H. Gray and his sons establish Gray Metal Products, Inc., manufacturing sheet metal ductwork and fittings.
1940s–1960s
The Gray family expands operations, developing new HVAC sheet metal components and building a reputation for innovation and reliability.
1970s–1980s
A new generation of Grays joins the business, continuing family ownership and expanding capabilities.
1989
Gray Flex Systems, Inc. is founded by William R. Gray and his wife, Carrie, in Rochester, NY, to manufacture flexible air duct products.
1991
The Gray family acquires Nova Industries in Virginia (later renamed Gray Metal South).
1992
Gray Flex relocates to Coats, NC, expanding into a larger facility. Patent issued for a reinforced flexible duct core.
1997
Gray Metal South relocates to Dunn, NC into a 235,000 sq. ft. facility; Gray Metal Products relocates its primary operations to Avon, NY.
1998
Snap-Rite Manufacturing, Inc. is founded by William R. Gray and Richard Gray Jr. in Coats, NC, producing insulated sheet metal duct products. Patents issued for a vent screen and a motorcycle warning device.
2000
Snap-Rite acquires Automated Ductwork Manufacturing in Cleveland, OH.
2001
Snap-Rite relocates to Lake Park, Georgia, opening a 155,000 sq. ft. facility.
2002
Patent issued for flexible duct packaging system.
2008
Snap-Rite acquires New Era in Michigan, further expanding production capacity.
Today
The Gray family continues its tradition of innovation, quality, and American-made craftsmanship through Gray Flex Systems and Snap-Rite Manufacturing—both recognized leaders in the HVAC industry.
The Gray Flex Difference
With over 100 years of family manufacturing expertise, Gray Flex Systems delivers premium flexible duct products, fast lead times, and dependable U.S. made quality. Whether you’re a distributor or contractor, we’re here to support your success with innovation, service, and reliable delivery.
