We Make Products
That Make a Difference

The Early Years

H.W. Phillips, a vehicle parts distributor and great-grandfather of current CEO Rob Phillips, invents and patents the first reflective directional signal arm for trucks. While this precursor to turn signals and brake lights was definitely an analog invention, it was a decidedly modern addition to trucks.

In the 1960s, grandson Bob Phillips continues the family legacy after inheriting H.W.’s store in downtown Los Angeles.

Next: 1960 to 1970s

1960 to 1970s

After his first big deal at age 22 with Pacific Motor Trucking, followed by the major southern California carrier, Western Gillette, Bob begins manufacturing more diversified parts to serve his customer’s needs. In 1974, he produces the first practical coiled 7-way electrical assembly made in North America, applying the same resilience and flexibility found in the phone cords to his cables. His coils are lighter wright, stronger and longer lasting than any coiled assembly at the time.

By the end of the 70’s, Phillips expands focus on manufacturing wire and cable, further serving the evolving needs of the modern transportation industry.

Next: 1980s

1980s

Phillips continues to innovate and expand, offering Y cables, the newly redesigned gladhands, and more. In 1985, Phillips adds STA-DRY® water-proof metallic and non-metallic socketbreakers to combat corrosion, then dual-pole liftgate assemblies.

In less than a decade, Phillips becomes the industry’s leading trailer harness manufacturer.

Next: 1990s

1990s

Phillips welcomes the fourth generation of the family into the business, Bob’s sons Bill, Rob, and Dave, and together, they solve more problems once considered to be the cost of doing business in the commercial trucking industry.

By the early 1990s, Phillips’ electrical assemblies are standard on 7 of the 8 tractors manufactured in North America. While they are no longer a small business, they continue listening to their loyal customers and looking to fleets for inspiration.

In 1997, Phillips becomes principal suppliers of ABS assemblies for North American tractor manufacturers. Phillips is now the continental leader in trailer wiring harnesses. Phillips’ knack for innovation—and digging in at the fleet level—pays off.

Next: 2000s

2000s

Every year, Phillips continues to add more revolutionary products. The Latch-It Gladhand, Quick Change Socket®, and QCP™ all debut in the early 2000s, leading to several industry recognitions. Years later comes PERMALOGIC™, PERMALOGIC™ TC PLUS & PERMALITE™ XB LED. Phillips is the name customers demand.

In 2006, Phillips expanded into Shanghai, and the following year, opened up Phillips De Mexico en Saltillo.

Next: 2010s and Beyond

2010s and Beyond

In 2013, Bob Phillips passes the baton to son Rob after 51 years as president. Rapid-fire growth and expansion are the norm, with new ISO 24 volt plugs, sockets and coiled air and electrical assemblies. Most years, Phillips is recognized with awards for product innovation.

In 2017, Phillips launches Phillips Connect, to drive the transportation industry forward by providing intelligent, predictive technologies that save time, money, and lives. Phillips is now headquartered in a state-of-the-art office building in Irvine, California. With the fourth generation driving the company, Phillips is a name that’s built to last. The innovations will keep coming as long as the commercial trucking industry has problems that need solutions.

The Early Years