At the Institution for Savings, we value long-term relationships with local businesses that share our commitment to exceptional service, strong partnerships and community involvement. That’s why we’re proud to spotlight Brake & Clutch (B&C, Inc.), a family-owned business that has been serving New England since 1965.
More Than 60 Years of Growth
Founded in Salem in 1965, B&C, Inc. has evolved from a wholesale supplier of truck components into one of the region’s leading providers of commercial truck equipment, snow and ice control solutions, truck bodies and fleet upfitting services.
The company has remained rooted in its original Salem location while expanding its footprint and capabilities over the decades. Today, B&C, Inc. serves contractors, municipalities, utility companies and commercial fleets throughout New England from facilities in Salem and Ipswich.
Built on Relationships
For President Frank Livas, success has always come down to relationships.
“It’s all about personal relationships and exceptional service. That’s how you become successful,” he said.
That philosophy extends beyond customers to manufacturers, employees and banking partners. Many members of the B&C team have spent decades with the company, bringing specialized skills and expertise.
The company has also become a strong advocate for workforce development, employing interns from local vocational schools and creating opportunities for young people interested in the skilled trades.
A Partnership with Institution for Savings
B&C has partnered with Institution for Savings for years, relying on the Bank for business banking, commercial lending and personal banking needs.
Frank credits the relationship with helping support the company’s continued growth and day-to-day operations.
“Institution for Savings provides exceptional service. Whenever I need something, I call Mary Foote-Hill (Ipswich Officer Manager). She follows up quickly and makes it easy for me,” said Frank.
He sees many similarities between the way Institution for Savings serves customers and the way B&C operates its own business.
“We’re not successful unless you are. That’s the philosophy I’ve always shared with our customers, and I think Institution for Savings lives by the same thing.”
For a business that carries millions of dollars in inventory and serves customers across the Northeast, access to commercial financing is critical. That is where our commercial lending relationship comes in.
“The line of credit is very important to a business like ours,” Frank explained. “It allows us to invest in inventory, prepare for busy seasons and continue serving our customers without interruption.”
But beyond products and services, Frank values the personal approach.
“Institution for Savings wrote the book on personal relationships, exceptional service and partnership,” he said. “They know their customers, they know local business, and they’re invested in the community.”
Looking Ahead
As B&C enters its seventh decade in business, the company continues to grow while staying true to the principles that helped build its reputation: quality workmanship, trusted relationships and a commitment to serving customers throughout New England.
Visit Brake & Clutch
- Website: brakeandclutch.com
- Ipswich Location: 105 County Road, Ipswich, MA
- Salem Location: 63 Bridge Street, Salem, MA
- Follow: @brakeandclutch