Friday, July 11, 2025
In an exclusive interview with Ben Belzer, President and CEO of E-Z LOK, a leading manufacturer of threaded inserts, he provided a comprehensive view of the company’s trajectory, the evolving fastener industry, and the technological innovations that have shaped the business. As a third-generation leader, Belzer shares his vision for the future and reflects on the company’s rich history, customer relationships, and industry dynamics.
E-Z LOK: Leading the Charge in Innovation and Customer Service
Founded in 1956 by Burt Belzer, Ben’s grandfather, E-Z LOK has been at the forefront of manufacturing high-quality threaded inserts for metal. The company revolutionized the industry with the introduction of the solid wall inserts, which significantly improved fastening solutions for metalworking applications. While the company has grown substantially since its founding, it has maintained its commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions to customers. Under Ben Belzer’s leadership, E-Z LOK has embraced technology, advanced manufacturing processes, and customer-focused services.
“We are always looking for ways to meet our customers’ needs more efficiently,” says Belzer, who grew up working in the shop before officially joining the company after earning his degree from the University of Illinois. “This mindset drives our investments in technology, including the recent purchase of the LOCTITE® machine and new insert testing equipment.”
LOCTITE® Machine Enhances Flexibility and Control
Belzer explained that the addition of the LOCTITE® machine was a strategic move to streamline operations and provide customers with faster, more cost-effective solutions. Previously, sending parts out for coating was both costly and time-consuming. With the new machine, E-Z LOK can now coat parts in-house on the same day, offering greater flexibility in meeting customer demands. “The ability to test and coat parts in-house, rather than outsourcing, significantly reduces lead times, providing a competitive edge in the market,” he added.
The company also invested in advanced insert testing equipment to verify pullout resistance and torque—common concerns for customers. This allows E-Z LOK to perform quality inspections internally, providing more reliable data and reducing the need to send large quantities of inserts for external testing.
Technology and Customer Service: A Winning Combination
Technology has been a cornerstone of E-Z LOK’s operational strategy, particularly in overcoming challenges related to the skilled workforce shortage. While finding qualified employees has become increasingly difficult in recent years, Belzer noted that the company has been able to scale its operations without significant increases in headcount thanks to its ERP system, Netsuite.
“Our ERP system has allowed us to automate many of the back-office operations, freeing up our customer service team to focus on solving real issues rather than managing day-to-day logistics,” Belzer shared. The scalability of the system ensures that the company can continue to grow without the additional cost of hiring more staff.
He also emphasized that despite the ease and convenience of online resources, engineers remain vital to the success of the company. With the addition of a CAD download service for engineering input, E-Z LOK can now offer even more support to engineers, while still recognizing the importance of human expertise in product design and development.
Family Legacy and Industry Challenges
For Ben Belzer, working alongside his team and continuing the legacy of his grandfather, Bert, is a source of pride. “My grandfather would be amazed at how far the company has come. He’d be proud of our accomplishments, but also a little overwhelmed by today’s technology!” he chuckled.
The challenges facing the manufacturing and fastener industries are ever-evolving, from international supply chain disruptions to shifts in domestic manufacturing. Despite global uncertainties, including trade policies and geopolitical tensions, Belzer remains optimistic. “Global conflict and international trade policies can change rapidly, but I stay optimistic about the balance between domestic and international supply. The mix has served us well so far,” he said.
While many businesses struggle with supply chain instability, E-Z LOK has maintained a steady supply by diversifying sources and fostering strong relationships with both domestic and overseas suppliers.
Looking Toward the Future: Innovation and Growth
As E-Z LOK looks to the future, Belzer envisions continued growth, with an emphasis on expanding product offerings and staying ahead of industry trends. “The fastener industry is constantly evolving, and we want to remain at the cutting edge,” said Belzer. “By continuing to innovate and invest in new products and solutions, we will ensure that E-Z LOK stays a leader in the industry.”
E-Z LOK’s forward-looking strategy includes exploring new markets, pushing the boundaries of manufacturing technology, and seeking out novel solutions that meet emerging customer needs. Whether expanding product lines, improving manufacturing efficiency, or enhancing customer service, E-Z LOK is committed to maintaining its position as a trusted partner for businesses in industries that rely on fasteners.
With an eye on the future and a strong commitment to innovation, E-Z LOK is poised to continue its legacy of excellence in the fastener industry.
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Tags: Ben Belzer, customer service, domestic supply chain, E-Z LOK, E-Z LOK history, ERP system, fastener industry, future of fasteners, insert testing, international trade, LOCTITE machine, manufacturing innovation, technology impact, threaded inserts, USA
