Celebrating 125 Years of Innovation and Excellence at General Glass International (GGI)
For over a century, General Glass International (GGI) has been a trusted name in the glass industry, known for its heritage of innovation, quality craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. This year, as GGI celebrates its 125th anniversary, the company not only reflects on its remarkable history but also looks ahead to a promising future, fortified by strategic partnerships like the one it shares with EnduroShield.
As a leader in advanced glass coating technology, EnduroShield has played a decisive role in expanding GGI’s product offerings and enhancing its market presence. Together, we have forged a partnership that combines tradition with forward-thinking innovation, setting a new standard for glass solutions in the industry.
A Legacy Built on Expertise and Quality
Founded 125 years ago, GGI’s origins are steeped in a passion for bringing premium glass products to the market. Over time, the company evolved from a local supplier into a nationally recognized leader, serving architects, designers, glass fabricators, and the glazing industry. Each milestone in GGI’s history reflects its dedication to adapting to market changes and meeting the evolving needs of its customers.
Reflecting on what sets GGI apart, Brad Thurman, vice president of sales and marketing, shares, “There are a lot of reasons GGI stands out in the market. The first is our longevity. We’ve been around for 125 years and are known throughout North America.”
Notably, GGI’s commitment to quality has never wavered. Thurman emphasizes, “We deliver 99% of our projects on time and complete. We take it very seriously. When people give us an opportunity, we want to shine. We want to make sure that they get what they need, it’s on time, and it’s complete.”
Growing with EnduroShield’s Advanced Solutions
A key factor contributing to GGI’s continued growth is its partnership with EnduroShield. This collaboration has enabled GGI to integrate cutting-edge glass coating technology into their product line, offering solutions that address real-world challenges like maintenance, durability, and performance enhancement.
Thurman recalls the beginnings of GGI’s work with EnduroShield: “We jumped in headfirst and said, ‘Let’s do this.’
GGI partnered with EnduroShield to create Enhance™, bringing unparalleled value to customers by providing a protective glass coating that simplifies maintenance and extends the lifespan of glass surfaces. Enhance's ability to repel water and prevent stains is a game-changer for GGI customers seeking an easy clean glass solution.
The adaptability and effectiveness of EnduroShield have reinforced GGI’s reputation for quality. Thurman notes, “Enhance™ is easy to apply using the X Line equipment and works in virtually any setting—from handrails to shower doors. It’s a strong value-add for our customers.”
He also highlights its impact on the company’s growth, adding, “Glass protection is a category that continues to expand for us each year. Many of the shower enclosures, back-painted kitchen backsplashes, cabinetry glass, wall cladding, and even Alice® Direct-To-Glass Printing featured on our project page are protected by EnduroShield.”
Staying Ahead with Innovation
Innovation has been the backbone of GGI’s success, and it continues to drive the company forward as it enters its 126th year and beyond. GGI leverages the latest fabrication equipment to offer precision-engineered products, meeting the exacting demands of their clients while pushing the boundaries of glass design and functionality.
Looking ahead, GGI is poised to introduce exciting new products that reflect their forward-thinking approach.
The Road Ahead
As GGI celebrates the incredible milestone of 125 years in business, the company is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence. Partnerships like these exemplify GGI’s willingness to invest in advanced solutions that drive growth and meet evolving customer demands. By staying true to its core values while pushing the envelope in product innovation, GGI sets an inspiring example of how heritage and progress can go hand in hand.
With a rich history behind it and a focus on innovation ahead, GGI is not just celebrating its legacy—it’s building the foundation for decades of continued success in the glass industry.
Our goal is to make sure our quality stands out. We cut ASTM standards in half and evaluate everything from the customer’s perspective. That mindset is our culture—it’s strong, and it drives us to get better every day, says Thurman