Celebrating 75 Years of Excellence:

On a memorable evening in August, Gray-Hodges celebrated its 75th anniversary with a grand event that brought together a vibrant mix of current and former employees, as well as past and present representatives. Between 180 and 190 attendees gathered to commemorate the company’s rich history and its significant milestones over the years.

The celebration featured a lovely dinner and a poignant video that highlighted the journey of Gray-Hodges from its inception to the present day. Among the special moments of the evening, Charlie Morgan, the current president, delivered a heartfelt speech about the company’s achievements and ongoing projects. One notable highlight was when he spoke to the original owner’s granddaughter and grandson.

“I asked where his office was and learned that it is the same office I have today—75 years later,” Morgan said.

Gray-Hodges was founded in 1949 and has since become a cornerstone of the community. In 1985, the company underwent a significant transformation when the current president established an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), making every employee an owner. This structure fosters a unique culture where employees take immense pride in their work, knowing that their efforts directly contribute to their own future. The ESOP model has proven to be a strong motivator, with many employees serving long-term careers at the company due to the opportunities and benefits it provides.

The company’s diverse clientele ranges from individual plumbers operating out of their trucks to multimillion-dollar mechanical contractors. Gray-Hodges serves a broad spectrum, including residential homebuilders, remodeling projects and homeowners through its showrooms across four locations.

Management and Culture

Gray-Hodges is steered by a dedicated management team: Morgan as president, Terry Brown as vice president, and Salena Colburn as secretary. The management is hands-on, with Brown overseeing operations at the main Knoxville location, Justin Ward managing the West Knoxville branch, Travis Terry at the Alcoa location and Whitney Vickers handling the Sevierville branch. This close-knit leadership team is deeply involved in daily operations, ensuring decisions are made locally and efficiently.

The company’s culture is distinctly shaped by its ESOP structure. This model not only fosters a sense of ownership but also aligns employees’ interests with the company’s success. The focus on investing in employees extends beyond the workplace, with Gray-Hodges actively supporting local high schools, football programs, athletic programs and the Boys and Girls Club. This community engagement is a testament to the company’s values and its commitment to making a positive impact.

Recent Changes and Future Opportunities

Recent changes have seen Gray-Hodges expand into the commercial plumbing sector, significantly increasing its inventory and scope. A major organizational shift occurred when the former vice president retired, and Brown stepped into the role. Looking ahead, the company is exploring opportunities for a new branch location, reflecting its ongoing growth and ambition.

One of the pressing challenges facing Gray-Hodges, like many companies, is staffing. The difficulty in finding and retaining skilled workers is a significant concern. To address this, Gray-Hodges is focused on creating a supportive and attractive work environment to ensure employees remain engaged and motivated long-term.

In terms of customer service, Gray-Hodges continues to excel in meeting the demands of a modern market. The core of the business remains centered on plumbing, kitchen cabinets, counter tops, appliances, water heaters and bathroom fixtures in Knox, Blount and Sevier counties in Tennessee in an approximate 100-mile radius of Knoxville. The Sevierville store serves a somewhat different customer mix than the company’s other stores, serving primarily the commercial lodging business common in this popular vacation area. Recently, there has been an increased focus on technology, such as customer portals for invoices and statements, reflecting evolving customer needs.

As Gray-Hodges embarks on its next chapter, it remains committed to its core values and community ties while embracing new opportunities and overcoming challenges. The company’s remarkable journey over the past 75 years is a testament to its resilience, dedication and the enduring spirit of its employees.