Our Story
WHO WE ARE
Our Story
Founded in 2010 by Tom Schellens and a business partner, ACARI began with a mission to solve a simple yet pervasive issue in the work truck industry—how to mount warning lights and accessories without compromising the integrity of the vehicle’s roof. Our breakthrough came with the introduction of the industry-first third brake light mounting platform, a game-changer that eliminated the need for drilling holes. This innovation not only protected trucks from unnecessary damage but also set a new standard for efficiency and ease of installation. By providing a solution that saved time, preserved vehicle value, and improved overall functionality, ACARI quickly became a trusted name in the industry, catering to businesses across a variety of sectors.
As demand for our innovative products rapidly grew, so did our company. Thanks to the overwhelmingly positive response from customers, we soon outgrew our original location in Old Saybrook, CT. To keep up with increasing demand and ensure we could continue delivering the quality and reliability our customers expected, we relocated to our current location, a larger facility in Deep River, CT. This move was a turning point for ACARI, enabling us to scale production, invest in cutting-edge manufacturing equipment, and expand our talented team. The additional space also allowed us to enhance our R&D capabilities, which led to the development of new products and solutions that continue to address the evolving needs of our customers.
Since the launch of our first drill-free platform, ACARI has remained dedicated to expanding our product line and refining our processes to meet the diverse demands of the work truck, emergency, and law enforcement communities. We’ve worked closely with professionals in both the public and private sectors, ensuring that our products not only meet but exceed industry standards for durability, performance, and safety. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship has earned us a reputation for delivering dependable solutions that enhance vehicle functionality, improve workflow, and ensure the safety of those in the field.
Looking to the future, ACARI is committed to staying at the forefront of innovation in the vehicle upfitting industry. We are focused on developing new, cutting-edge solutions that will meet the evolving challenges of our customers, while maintaining the high standards of quality and reliability that have been the foundation of our success. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on providing American-made products that deliver unmatched performance, backed by a team dedicated to customer satisfaction. With our eyes set on the next decade, we are excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and ensuring our customers have the tools they need to succeed.