65 Years Kool:

"A Box with a Story"

  • A Legacy in the Making.

    From humble beginnings in 1960 to becoming a trusted name in walk-in refrigeration and cold storage solutions, Thermo-Kool’s journey is built on innovation, dedication, and the people who made it all possible. Explore the milestones that have shaped our 65-year legacy.

    1960

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    The Beginning

    Thermo-Kool, originally known as Mid-South Industries, Inc., is established by Walid T. Damlouji and William Maurice Tittle near the old airport in South Laurel.

    1965

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    Officially Incorporated

    Mid-South Industries, Inc. is incorporated.

    1966-1969

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    Leadership Changes

    Stock of the company changes hands several times before Samuel A. Sacter joins as president, though his tenure is short-lived.

    1970

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    A New Vision

    Now firmly established as “Thermo-Kool,” Randolph W. McLaughlin visits to evaluate the company for Standard International’s conglomerate but instead purchases it for himself.

    1975

    1975

    A Bigger Home

    Thermo-Kool moves to a larger facility located in the North Laurel Industrial Park, where its home remains today.

    1980

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    Coast to Coast

    With 20 years under its belt, Thermo-Kool expands its sales force to cover the nation and select export territories.

    2000

    Comptroller 1

    Downtown Expansion

    Thermo-Kool opens a new comptroller office in downtown Laurel, housing accounting, data processing, and credit departments.

    2006

    Rand McLaughlin, President and CEO

    New Leadership

    Rand McLaughlin is elected President of Thermo-Kool/Mid-South Industries by the Board of Directors.

    2012

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    New Product Line

    Thermo-Kool introduces a new line of blast chillers and shock freezers, expanding its cold storage solutions.

    2017

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    Growing the Plant

    The plant undergoes expansion to accommodate increased production, adding equipment to enhance product quality.

    2019

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    Strengthening the Core

    Thermo-Kool purchases a downtown Laurel office to house accounting, sales, and scheduling departments.

    PRESENT

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    Focused on the Future

    Thermo-Kool remains focused on product innovation and delivering top-quality consulting and design services.

    65 Years Kool

    A Message from Our President & CEO

    "As we celebrate Thermo-Kool’s 65th anniversary, I’m reminded that our story is not just about the products we’ve built—it’s about the people, partnerships, and shared commitment that have shaped who we are today. Every milestone we’ve reached is thanks to the dedication of our team and the loyalty of our customers and partners. On behalf of the entire Thermo-Kool family, thank you for being part of our journey. We look forward to building the future together—with the same passion, integrity, and pursuit of excellence that have carried us through the past 65 years."

    —Rand McLaughlin, President & CEO

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    65
    Years in Business
    155
    Team Members
    20
    +
    Countries served
    71000
    +
    Walk-Ins Built
    132000
    +
    Factory Sq ft
    LE-65pin

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    Want your very own piece of cold storage history? It's as easy as filling out the form. No gimmicks, no hassles, no strings attached. We just want to say thank you for being a part of our continued success... and for scrolling this far. Come on! You deserve it!

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