Exotic Automation & Supply, a leading Parker Hannifin distributor and provider of motion and control solutions, announced it has completed the necessary steps to acquire West Michigan Rubber & Supply Co., a Muskegon-based industrial supplier of hose, rubber, and belting products. The acquisition, effective December 1, 2025, will combine two Parker Hannifin distributors with nearly 130 years of combined experience, expanding product offerings and services across West Michigan.
The addition of West Michigan Rubber strengthens Exotic Automation & Supply’s position as a comprehensive provider of engineered systems and industrial solutions. The acquisition will introduce new capabilities in pneumatics, hydraulics, compressed air systems, and engineered solutions to West Michigan Rubber’s existing customer base, significantly enhancing its product range and technical expertise.
Founded in 1955, West Michigan Rubber & Supply has served as a trusted source for industrial hose and rubber products, including custom hose assemblies available through its retail ParkerStore location. The company is known for its expertise in manufacturing custom rubber and belting solutions for a wide range of industries.
Exotic Automation & Supply, founded in 1963, operates across Michigan and Indiana, offering a wide array of automation, motion, and control products. The company’s portfolio includes custom hoses and fittings, pneumatic and hydraulic components, filtration and lubrication systems, engineered power units, and compressed air solutions. It also continues to design and manufacture custom urethane and rubber parts through its Engineered Rubber & Plastics division.
This acquisition will establish Exotic Automation’s seventeenth location in Michigan, expanding its footprint and enabling closer access to customers throughout the region. Both companies share a long-standing commitment to customer service, quality craftsmanship, and engineering innovation, values that will continue to guide their joint operations in the future.
KEY QUOTES:
“Joining the Exotic Automation family is an exciting moment for our company, but an even more important one for our customers. The acquisition opens exciting opportunities for West Michigan Rubber to expand into new markets and product lines, such as pneumatics, hydraulics, compressed air and engineered systems, which will dramatically increase our product offering to customers.”
Joe Veltman, Co-Owner, West Michigan Rubber & Supply
“Joining Exotic Automation marks a significant milestone in West Michigan Rubber’s journey and reinforces the success of our strategy and our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our customers. Our new partnership will bring expanded offerings as well as additional resources and capabilities which will set West Michigan Rubber up for the next phase of growth.”
Jake Veltman, Co-Owner, West Michigan Rubber & Supply
“When we first explored this opportunity with West Michigan Rubber & Supply, I was amazed by our many shared principles, visions and core values. I am very excited to welcome West Michigan Rubber to the Exotic Automation family and I have no doubt this partnership will be a success.”
Tom Marino, CEO, Exotic Automation & Supply
“West Michigan Rubber has been an established fluid power provider for over 70 years. As we evolve our portfolio to expand our presence and better service customers, West Michigan Rubber’s strong reputation, dedicated team and distinguished legacy make this a natural fit.”
Steve Orlando, President, Exotic Automation & Supply
