Supplier Member Profile
Crown Battery: Decades of Quality, Community and Continuous Improvement
By Nicole Needles
CROWN BATTERY, WITH headquarters in Fremont, Ohio, stands as a cornerstone in the battery manufacturing industry, combining nearly a century of expertise with a commitment to quality and community.
According to Mark Kelley, vice president of Crown Battery, the company prides itself on a culture that is both straightforward and dedicated, fostering a family-like atmosphere where every employee has a role in driving the company’s success.
“Our company culture is to keep things simple and prioritize core values,” Kelley explains. “This includes showing up every day, delivering high-quality products, making consistent efforts and giving back to the community.”
Crown Battery’s culture is deeply rooted in respect and a focus on continual improvement. Although culture is not a daily topic of conversation, it is central to how the company operates.
“Our culture combines a mutual respect between shareholders – vendors, customers, associates and their families, as well as our community members,” says Kelley.
Community involvement is another vital component of Crown Battery’s identity. As a leading company in its local market, Crown Battery actively contributes to numerous charitable organizations, setting an example of community giveback that Kelley hopes employees will emulate in their personal lives. The company also promotes a culture of recognition, celebrating achievements through events like work anniversaries and retirements, which Kelley believes helps foster a strong sense of belonging and appreciation among employees.
As Crown Battery approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026, it reflects on the evolution within the battery industry. While manufacturing processes have advanced, the core chemistry of lead batteries has remained largely unchanged.
“Our industry’s trade organization – Battery Council International – celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024,” Kelley notes. “And while lead battery technology is still foundational, new options like lithium-ion are expanding possibilities, especially for cleaner, environmentally-friendly power in internal combustion equipment.”
Crown Battery has embraced these innovations, positioning itself to adapt to the changing landscape while maintaining a steadfast commitment to quality.
Despite its growth over the decades, Crown Battery remains dedicated to organic and steady expansion, with a strategic focus on supporting both internal and external shareholders.
“We will continue to provide the highest quality automotive, commercial and industrial battery products,” Kelley says.
A previous acquisition brought manufacturing capacity back to Ohio, a testament to the company’s commitment to its local community. This growth has led to multiple expansions of their headquarters and the addition of new facilities for distribution, training and advanced battery technology.
As one of the largest employers in its county, Crown Battery is dedicated to preparing younger generations for rewarding careers in manufacturing. The company is actively involved in education, from monthly visits with 4th graders to hosting high school seniors through its Lunch and Learn Program.
This partnership allows students to explore career paths in manufacturing, engineering and other fields while receiving guidance on resume development and interview preparation. Crown Battery also encourages family involvement, with multiple family members often working together in various departments, further reinforcing its family-oriented culture.
“With our commitment to training, Crown Battery adheres to our promise of continual improvement – not just in our product but in promoting knowledge and best practices among our employees,” says Kelley. The company is also exploring online training formats to further expand accessibility and learning opportunities.
Through its unwavering focus on quality, community and development, Crown Battery is well-positioned for continued growth and success. As Kelley concludes, “For nearly 100 years, we have been dedicated to delivering excellence, and that dedication will guide us as we look toward the future.”
