60th Anniversary
Taking on Challenges Since 1965
Brentwood has grown from a small family business into a global leader, driven by a spirit of innovation, resilience, and a deep commitment to making a difference. Over the past six decades, we’ve expanded our reach across industries and continents, continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of our customers and communities. Our journey has been shaped by the dedication of our employees, the trust of our partners, and the support of the communities we serve.
As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we’re not just reflecting on the milestones we’ve achieved—we’re honoring the people and values that got us here. This anniversary is more than a marker of time; it’s a testament to our growth, our global impact, and our unwavering focus on creating a better future. Join us as we commemorate this special year with gratitude, pride, and a renewed commitment to innovation, sustainability, and giving back to the communities that have been part of our story.
Highlights From Our History
1965 – 2025
The Founding
1965
Brentwood Plastics, Inc., now Brentwood Industries, Inc., was founded in Reading, Pennsylvania, on August 25, 1965.
Palle Rye Joins Brentwood
1971
Palle Rye joins Brentwood as Plant Manager and doubles sales within his first four months.
The Rye Family Purchases Brentwood
1975
When Brentwood went up for sale, Palle and Rita Rye knew they couldn't allow the company to be broken apart. They saw Brentwood's potential and purchased the company with the help of American Bank and Trust on December 11, 1975.
Brentwood Gets A New Name
1981
Brentwood Plastics, Inc. officially becomes Brentwood Industries, Inc. on July 2, 1981.
Rita Rye Joins Brentwood
1981
Rita Rye, Palle’s wife, joins Brentwood to oversee the finance department. She personally wrote each check that was sent over the next few years and ensured Brentwood was in top financial standing.
Plastics Recycling & Vertical Integration
1989
We open a facility in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, aimed at making Brentwood a vertically integrated business. Millions of pounds of material are now recycled here annually.
Peter Rye Joins Brentwood
1993
Peter Rye, Palle’s son, joins Brentwood with a background in mechanical and electrical engineering. He moves to Reading with his wife, Leigh, and daughter, Caitlin (his son, Oliver, was born the following year).
Brentwood Goes Global
2001
We open a manufacturing and distribution facility in Thailand, following the success of several large projects completed in Southeast Asia.
Palle Sets Milestone Sales Goal
2005
Palle sets a milestone sales goal to hit $100 million. He penned this goal on a napkin while out to lunch, which is now framed and displayed in a boardroom at our headquarters.
Peter Becomes President & CEO
2010
Palle decides to retire and is succeeded as President of the company by Peter.
Brentwood Moves Its Headquarters
2014
Brentwood makes the difficult decision to shift its headquarters by purchasing new office and warehousing space. The Rye family remained true to the company’s roots and made sure to stay in Reading.
Brentwood Gives Back During COVID
2020
Brentwood uses its plastics manufacturing expertise during the COVID-19 pandemic to develop a face shield product. Many face shields were donated to local hospitals in the areas we operate.
Caitlin Becomes President & CEO
2024
Caitlin Banta succeeds her father, Peter Rye, as President & CEO. Peter remains engaged in the business as Chief Strategy Officer.
Join The Celebration!
We’re looking forward to collecting your stories and memories about Brentwood over the years. This is open to all employees, customers, and partners—past and present!
We want to know: What makes Brentwood special? Why do you do business with Brentwood? How has Brentwood impacted you?
Please share your story with our Marketing team, either as a video message or written text, by clicking the button below.
Employee Stories
Hear what our employees love about working for Brentwood!
Jodi - Martinsburg, WV
“I'm proud of what we do here. And I'm even prouder of the people I get to do it with.”
Kesava - India
“For me, Brentwood is not just a company. But a family.”
Connie & Tara - Reading, PA
“I'm thankful for Brentwood for how much they care about the safety of their employees... And for the friendships that we've made through Brentwood!”
Joel - Lebanon, PA
“What Brentwood means to me is opportunity. They took a chance on me.”
Andrew - Reading, PA
“My favorite thing about Brentwood is the people!”
Jennifer - Reading, PA
“I'm proud to work at Brentwood because our organization makes products that make a difference in peoples' lives.”
Mihir - India
“I'm proud to be a part of Brentwood because we don't just talk about values, we actually live them.”
Brenda - Reading, PA
“I love working at Brentwood because of all the opportunities to help people in my community.”
Michael - Martinsburg, WV
“I love Brentwood because Brentwood is family. This is home to me.”
Rick - Reading, PA
“I love what I do at Brentwood because I get to be creative and solve problems for my customers.”
Dave - Lebanon, PA
“Family! I always felt like I was part of the family.”
Julian & Chad - Reading, PA
“I'm thankful for Brentwood for giving back to the community. And for the friendships I have developed!”
Pamela - Reading, PA
“I am so excited and happy to be part of a great family.”
Chris - Martinsburg, WV
“Just a small family business that makes me feel like a big part!”
Sneha - India
“Being with Brentwood has been more than just a career. It's been a journey of growth and belonging.”
Thomas - Reading, PA
“Most of things that you work on, and make, will be around for many years to come.”
Alex - Reading, PA
“I love working at Brentwood because I'm seen as an individual and not a number.”
Rochelle - Reading, PA
“It's a good place to come in, get the job done, and feel like you're a part of something that matters.”
Kevin - Reading, PA
“I'm so blessed to be working for a great company.”
Maulik - India
“It's been a privilege to work for an organization that upholds the legacy of innovation and integrity.”
Leroy - Reading, PA
“I'm thankful to Brentwood for their dedication to community service.”
Cory - Reading, PA
“I like working at Brentwood for the employee recognition, free food, great people, and overall great atmosphere.”
Farris - Lebanon, PA
“I would like to talk about what Brentwood means to me. It means everything.”
Karen - Reading, PA
“I like working at Brentwood because of the people. I have a really great team I work with, and that makes all the difference!”
Nancy - Reading, PA
“It's rare to find a company that truly invests in its people and the community the way Brentwood does.”
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