1980 Tom became a partner in the IH dealership with his father and brother, rebranding as T.H.E. Company in 1981. During the farm crisis of the 1980s, he embraced technology and met local farmers’ needs by offering overstock IH parts and used equipment.
1986 Tom acquired the John Deere Lawn and Garden franchise to sell new and used equipment. The first catalog was released in 1988, featuring 48 pages and establishing T.H.E. Company as an aftermarket parts dealer. By 1995, the catalog grew to 151 pages and regularly featured Tom’s family on the cover, honoring their legacy.
1991 Tom took the plunge and went into business for himself, and serperated his business from from the implement dealership.
1993 Tom bought the old Steele Lumber building on the West side of Mt. Pleasant, and opened T.H.E. Company’s present location.
1998 The-Co.com became live on the internet, and has grown to an active e-commerce store shipping parts all over the United States.
2010 Tom’s oldest son, Jess, joined T.H.E. Company, bringing his Manufacturing and Design degree from UNI and expertise in fabrication and welding. This allowed the company to introduce a new line of custom manufactured products, keeping costs low and enhancing their offerings.
2018 The-Co.com launched an upgraded website with an advanced search feature, enabling customers to find parts by make, model, and type.
