Founded in 1919 with just four employees, RBI Corporation (formerly Richmond Battery & Ignition) began with a simple mission: providing exceptional service. Back then, we focused on battery maintenance for electric cars! As the automotive aftermarket grew, so did we, expanding into Briggs & Stratton locks and keys.
Fast forward to 1946, RBI was appointed as a distributor for Briggs & Stratton’s small engine division, specializing in gasoline-powered washing machines. Following WWII, we thrived as gasoline-powered equipment revolutionized the lawn and garden industry. Seizing this momentum, RBI expanded into outdoor power equipment parts and hasn’t looked back since.
By 1978, we were fully dedicated to the outdoor power equipment market, moving to a 53,000 square foot facility to meet the growing demand. Our reach didn’t stop there: in 1987, we opened a second location, adding 20,000 square feet of warehouse space. Today, our Albany, GA facility (opened in 2007) and Louisville, KY warehouse (opened in 2008) ensure we can deliver next-day service to our customers across the Southeast, with inventory strategically placed to support our expanding territory.
Our success is built on a foundation of strong relationships with our loyal, independent service dealer network. By maintaining cutting-edge communications and delivering unmatched service, RBI has grown into a trusted name in the outdoor power equipment aftermarket.
As we look to the future, our commitment to exceptional service and our outstanding dealer network position us for continued success in this dynamic and ever-evolving industry.