Mission Statement

Brown Cargo Van, Inc.’s mission is to manufacture, deliver, and service exceptional products which reflect the pride and craftsmanship of our employees and that enable our customers to transport their goods and services safely and more efficiently.

 

The First Name in Van Bodies, Since 1946

The history and tradition of Brown Cargo Van, Inc. dates back to 1946 when cargo vans were created in knockdown form by Brown Trailers, Inc. of Spokane, Washington. Brown's first truck body was constructed from trailer parts and outfitted as a bookmobile for the city of Spokane. That unit turned out to be the first dry freight cargo van ever made out of aluminum by any manufacturer. Subsequently, the company expanded nationwide and was later sold to Clark Equipment Company of Buchanan, Michigan. Clark manufactured and sold cargo vans and knockdown kits until 1975, when the Ashton-Richards Company purchased the business.

The Ashton-Richards Company operated a truck trailer and body sales and service business in Kansas City, Missouri that was recognized as one of the top independent distributors for these products in the country for over 30 years. Ashton-Richards bought the Lawrence, Kansas facility in 1975 and changed the name to Brown Cargo Van, Inc., directing its efforts toward the manufacture and sale of truck bodies and allied equipment of the highest quality.

More recently, we have extended our capabilities to the specialty trailer line and other customized transportation products. Our emphasis has been on trailers for the growing race car market, mobile laboratories, product display vehicles, and other custom bodies including various service industries such as glass transportation, carpet cleaning, plumbing, electrical, and landscaping.

Our experience in the industry and our customization capabilities are key factors to the loyalty of many of our customers. No other company has been building truck bodies for as many years as Brown Cargo Van and our quality product, backed by excellent service, has been the cornerstone for our continued success.

THE FIRST NAME IN VAN BODIES SINCE 1946 is a slogan that Brown Cargo Van earned at its inception. Today, over 60 years later, our goal and mission have remained unchanged.