The Niagara County Legislature honored E&R Machine as its inaugural Neighborhood Business of the Month.
The company, located on Grand Street in Lockport, is a precision CNC machining and contract manufacturing firm, serving a wide array of industries. The award was presented by Niagara County Legislators Tony Nemi and Rick Abbott and Niagara County Economic Development Commissioner Andrea Klyczek.
E&R Machine has been in business for over six decades, celebrating its 65th anniversary earlier this year. It is a family-owned business, with President Timothy Sauls representing the third-generation in charge.
Legislator Tony Nemi said E&R Machine was chosen for this award based on its longevity, reputation and commitment to the community.
“Manufacturing is a highly competitive business and the fact that E&R has been successful for 65 years right here in Niagara County is a testament to hard work and sound management,” said Nemi. “We also loved the fact that in the nomination for this award, the company was cited for treating all employees like family, with tremendous support and compassion.”
Klyczek added that E&R, and Tim Sauls specifically, have been a tremendous partner for the Dream It, Do It program, which connects middle and high school students with hands-on learning and career exploration in manufacturing. Sauls also supports the Niagara Tech Wars competition at SUNY Niagara where students compete in various technology competitions.
“There are tremendous job opportunities in manufacturing, but unfortunately too many young people are unaware of this as a viable career option and the jobs of unfilled,” said Klyczek. “E&R is trying to change that through their work with Dream It, Do It. Tim Sauls has been a regular speaker at their camps and has welcomed students into his plant so they can be exposed to the industry. This is the type of leadership we need from the business community and it’s another reason why E&R is being honored today.”
The Neighborhood Business of the Month recognition program to highlight small, locally-owned businesses that contribute to the county’s economy and enhance the quality of life. The award is open to any for-profit business located in Niagara County, with a particular focus on small, locally-owned businesses. Nominations are accepted year-round and will remain eligible for consideration in future months.
Anyone can submit a nomination by completing the online form at https://forms.gle/QeprKwwQ6KTnVUaLA or by visiting www.niagaracountybusiness.com.