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Our Story: Built by Stripers. Trusted Worldwide.
At MRL Equipment Company, Inc., our legacy is rooted in the relentless pursuit of innovation, quality, and service. Born from the field experience of seasoned stripers, MRL has grown into a global leader in pavement marking and removal equipment—trusted by contractors, municipalities, and DOTs across the world.
Founded in 1989 by industry veterans John Gonitzke and Jim Spielman, MRL was created on a clear and powerful mission:
“Make it with intention. Make it better. That’s what we do every day.”
This guiding principle still drives every machine we build and every partnership we forge.
Engineered by Experts. Trusted by Stripers.
For over 36 years, MRL Equipment has set the industry standard for custom-built, high-performance pavement marking and grooving solutions.
A Timeline of Excellence
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The Road Begins
John Gonitzke begins his striping career at Swanston Equipment in Fargo, ND, applying his craft to highways and airports across more than 30 states.
Building Expertise
John establishes Mark Rite Lines of Montana in Billings, Montana, delivering expert pavement marking services and laying the foundation for MRL’s future.
MRL is Born
John partners with Jim Spielman to launch MRL Equipment Company, Inc., identifying a critical industry need: precision-built, high-performance pavement marking equipment—designed by stripers, for stripers.
- The company begins selling used machines and building innovative epoxy and traffic paint stripers.
- MRL opens its first 26,000 sq. ft. facility on four acres.
- Joins the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA).
Family Legacy, New Frontiers
- John's son, Jonathan Gonitzke, joins the family business, adding deep field experience.
- MRL introduces truck-mounted thermoplastic stripers and enters a joint venture with 3M to develop advanced plural component application systems.
Scaling Impact
Jonathan leads Mark Rite Lines' multi-state operations, applying over 300,000 gallons of epoxy in a single year, a remarkable industry milestone.
Strategic Growth
- John sells Mark Rite Lines of Montana to United Rentals, and MRL becomes an independent corporation.
- MRL expands its product line to include line removal and grinding equipment.
- Moves to its permanent headquarters at 5379 Southgate Drive, Billings, MT.
- Recognized by the American Legion’s National Economic Commission for veteran employment.
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Market Leadership
- Jonathan establishes HighMark Traffic Services, Inc., expanding striping operations across the region.
- MRL becomes the largest manufacturer of road marking and removal equipment in the U.S.
Honors and Expansion
- John Gonitzke earns ATSSA’s Industry Achievement Award.
- MRL acquires HighMark and ProMark Striping, expanding its operational footprint.
- Named Montana Exporter of the Year.
- ATSSA awards Steve Shinners the Mark of Excellence
Product Innovation
- Adds new locations and facilities in Billings to meet growing demand.
- Launches the Mini Mac line after acquiring Mac Stripers of Alabama, broadening its small-scale equipment offering.
A Milestone Year
- MRL celebrates 30 years of innovation.
- Joins Federal Signal Corporation, a global leader in safety and security equipment, enhancing our capacity and global reach
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Industry Recognition
- Long-time employee Brad Meyer of HighMark Traffic Services earns ATSSA’s Industry Achievement Award
2021
Redefining Removal Equipment
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Launches an all-new grinder product line, including the Mini Grinder, 26K GVW, 33K GVW, and 66K GVW removal trucks.
WHY MRL?
Built by Stripers
We know the job because we’ve done the job.
Engineered for Excellence
Every product is made with performance, durability, and productivity in mind.
Backed by Experience
Over five decades of striping and manufacturing experience.
Driven by Service
We don't just build machines—we build partnerships.
THE ROAD AHEAD
From humble beginnings to industry leadership, MRL remains committed to one simple idea:
Always make it better.
As we innovate, grow, and serve our global customers, we never forget where we came from—or who we build for.