
On July 16, 1979, the Reliance Electric Company, a major firm specializing in the service and repair of industrial electric motors, announced that it will finalize the relocation of its regional service center to Norwood on September 1, 1979. The company is moving its operations from its current location in South Boston to a new, modern facility located within the Park Place industrial development off Route 1. This expansive 19,000-square-foot site is designed to optimize the company’s regional capabilities, featuring 15,000 square feet specifically dedicated to an electric motor repair area, supplemented by 4,000 square feet of administrative office space. The transition to Norwood is expected to bolster the local workforce, with the company projecting employment for approximately 30 individuals—an increase of five positions over the current staffing levels maintained in South Boston.
The Reliance Electric Company, which maintains its primary corporate headquarters in Ohio, operates an extensive network of service hubs, including 12 additional centers distributed throughout the United States and numerous facilities in industrial centers across the globe. Beyond its specialized repair services, the company offers a robust logistics network, including comprehensive pick-up and delivery services available to industrial clients within a 150-mile radius. Furthermore, the company provides expert field technicians who are available for both emergency repairs and scheduled maintenance directly at customer plants. The move to Park Place reflects the company’s commitment to improving its accessibility and efficiency for clients throughout the New England region, solidifying Norwood’s growing role as a hub for industrial service and specialized technical operations.
Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger
More Norwood Business History
-
Butters Family Sells Pharmacy-July 20, 1990
A significant chapter in the history of South Norwood business and family legacy came to an end on July 20, 1990. The Butters family pharmacy, a staple in the community for over four decades, ceased operations after Helen Butters, the selectman’s mother and president of the family business, decided to sell the pharmaceutical stock and…

-
Business Leaders Question “Anti-Commerce” Town Direction-August 15, 1989
Following a 2-2 selectmen vote denying a food license for a $1 million Taco Bell on Route 1, the Neponset Valley Chamber of Commerce warned of an anti-business trend.

-
McDonald’s Requests Special Permit for Broadway Drive-Through Window-September 2, 1987
An attorney representing the McDonald’s restaurant located at 32 Broadway in Norwood Center appeared before the Zoning Board of Appeal to request a special permit for the installation of a drive-through window. If approved, it would become the fourth drive-through facility established at local fast-food establishments following a contentious town meeting vote in May that…

-
“Amazing Things Inc.” Markets High-Tech Gadgets and Modems-August 1986
Norwood-based Amazing Things Inc., a distributor for Leading Edge World Trade, launches its operations by marketing competitively priced computer modems and consumer electronics.

-
Group Petitions for New Independent Bank in Norwood-July 11, 1986
Story 1: Proposal for Mid-County Banking Trust On July 11, 1986, local investors announced a formal bid to establish a new financial institution, the Mid-County Banking Trust, which would serve as the town’s only independent commercial bank. A group of 20 businessmen has already secured a building at 157 Central St., near Town Hall, to…

-
Northrop Corporation Wins Military Contract to Expand Norwood Plant-August 30, 1985
Northrop Corp.’s Precision Products Division in Norwood wins a $1.9 million military contract, expanding its workforce and taking on full system design.

-
Republic Plumbing Supply Seeks Expansion-July 25, 1985
William Duggan, owner of Republic Plumbing on Route 1, sought permission to extend the front of his building.

-
Norwood Marketing Advice for Downtown Merchants-July 18, 1985
In the sweltering summer of 1985, the quaint town of Norwood found itself facing a pressing concern: how to revitalize its downtown area and entice customers back into its shops. The rise of large malls had led to a decline in foot traffic, leaving local merchants struggling to compete with the glitz and glamour of…

-
New Friends Show They Care About Norwood Theft Victim-July 12, 1985
After a devastating June break-in at her 715 Washington St. store, Gould rebuilt her business with the help of a caring downtown community.

Discover more from Norwood Historical Society
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.










