Lawrence Fabric & Metal Structures, Inc., a premier North American manufacturer of custom fabric and metal awnings, canopies, and architectural elements, is proud to announce its 85th anniversary. Since its founding in 1941, the company has grown from a local fabricator into an industry-leading, 100% employee-owned powerhouse known for turning complex architectural visions into reality.
Over the past eight and a half decades, Lawrence Fabric & Metal Structures has established itself as the “Can Do” company. Operating out of a combined total of 90,000 sf in two manufacturing facilities in St. Louis, the company serves designers, contractors, and architects across North America. Their extensive portfolio includes everything from commercial awnings and shade structures to experiential exhibit displays and high-stakes industrial and aerospace fabrication.
Dave Bess, President at Lawrence Fabric & Metal Structures, said: “Reaching 85 years in business is an incredible milestone that speaks directly to the dedication of our employee-owners and the trust of our clients. Our philosophy has always been ‘Your Imagination Is Our Vision.’ We pride ourselves on taking on the unique and forward-thinking designs that others might shy away from, delivering them with lasting value and exceptional craftsmanship.”
Several key milestones and capabilities define Lawrence’s legacy of success:
- 100% Employee Ownership: As an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) company, every team member is personally invested in the quality, safety, and timely delivery of every project.
- Massive Production Footprint: Operating from a 69,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, the company maintains extensive material inventories, including more than 125,000 linear feet of steel and aluminum tubing, enabling fast and efficient production cycles. In 2025, Lawrence expanded its capabilities with a 21,000-square-foot Production Annex dedicated to custom sewing projects.
- Advanced On-Site Capabilities: The facility features an ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management system, AutoCAD design services, an in-house prepress graphics department with advanced printing, and a fully certified automotive paint booth for premium, long-lasting finishes.
- Award-Winning Craftsmanship: The company has earned over 70 industry awards in the past 25 years alone, including recognition from the International Achievement Awards.
As Lawrence Fabric & Metal Structures looks to the future, it remains dedicated to continual improvement through risk-based strategic planning, providing a safe and enriching environment for its craftsmen, and exceeding customer expectations for the next 85 years and beyond.