Chartered in 1919 with four employees, RBI Corporation (formerly Richmond Battery & Ignition) opened its doors committed to service. At that time, service was limited to battery maintenance on electric cars! The Company's growth paralleled the automotive aftermarket growth including Briggs & Stratton locks and keys.

In 1946, RBI was appointed as a distributor for the budding small engine division of Briggs & Stratton, with the largest potential being gasoline powered washing machines. Following World War II, business blossomed as gasoline powered equipment took over the lawn and garden industry. Fueling this corporate growth was the addition of complimentary outdoor power equipment parts lines (see products).

In 1978, a decision was made to devote 100% of RBI's corporate efforts to this continually growing outdoor power equipment industry and move to its current 53,000 square foot operations.


In 1987 a second location was opened adding an additional 20,000 square foot warehouse. Continued growth has required that we open additional shipping facilities. Our Albany, GA warehouse was added in October, 2007 with 20,000 square feet for inventories. Our Louisville, KY warehouse was added in December 2008 with 18,000 square feet. Louisville and Albany locations are key to providing the next day service that our customers have become accustomed to and to growing our new expanded territory in the Southeast.


Our growth has been made possible by RBI's continuing commitment to service. Outstanding service to the outdoor power equipment aftermarket is made possible by an excellent, loyal and committed independent service dealer network. RBI supports these dealers with its technical and training staff, 28 field service representatives and seasonally staffed customer service Call Centers. Customer orders received by 5:00 p.m. via fax, phone, EDI or directly online are shipped the same day by a two-shift warehouse staff.


By maintaining the most modern communications and its pledge of exceptional service, coupled with the continued support from our outstanding dealer network, RBI Corporation looks forward to the exciting challenges in this ever-changing industry.