Pump and Meter Service, Inc. started in 1930 when Cliff Price began fixing gas pumps in Minneapolis, Minnesota. His business grew during the Great Depression, hiring employees like Howard Abel, who worked there until 1978. After retiring, he continued part-time until his death in 1994. Cliff sold the company to Ken Wanner in 1957, who renamed it "Price-Wanner, Inc." Cliff mentored the new manager, Lee Radermacher, until the company was sold to investors, becoming Arrow Tank Company. In 1959, Cliff and Lee regained ownership and renamed it Pump and Meter Service, Inc. The company was located at 2711 East Franklin in South Minneapolis. Lee took on more responsibilities as time passed.
Pump and Meter Service worked with major oil companies and provided services to local businesses. By 1969, Lee owned the company and saw steady sales growth. Cliff Price passed away that year, but his values influenced Lee's business approach.
In the early days, gas pump parts were sourced from factories or local distributors. Pump and Meter Service was a Bowser distributor in the 50s and 60s. In 1963, they became a Gilbarco distributor, which helped them become the top petroleum pump provider in the Twin Cities due to their strong service support. They added other quality equipment lines over time.
A Look Back...
Lee's sons, Joe and Tom Radermacher, joined the business in the 70s, allowing Lee to reduce his workload. The company grew from five employees in 1959 to 67 today, with many key employees joining over the years.
In 1980, the company moved to Hopkins, Minnesota, expanding to 3.7 acres. They added a large warehouse in 1992. Lee retired in 1998 after 40 years, spending winters in Arizona and summers in Minnesota.
Kurt Radermacher, Joe's son, and third generation is the sole owner of Pump and Meter. Joining the company in 2010 the company has experienced growth with multiple acquisitions and geographic locations. The company now performs projects and service support in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa.
Recently Kurt and Andy Mercer (owner of RW Mercer in Michigan) formed a family office called Lake Shore Family Partners which owns both RW Mercer and Pump and Meter. They recently purchased a minority stake in Walts Petroleum out of Schofield, WI. Under LFP ownership the family of companies services from North Dakota to Indiana.
From The Past To The Present
1930
Started by Cliff Price
1963
Become one of the first Gilbarco distributors in Minnesota.
1969
Sold to Lee Radermacher
1974-1976
Lee's sons Joe and Tom joined the family business.
1980
The business was relocated to Hopkins, MN
1990
Bejin Pump Service was acquired.
2007
Joe's son Kurt joined the family business.
2013
Kurt Radermacher bought into the business
2018
Kurt Radermacher becomes the sole owner of Pump and Meter
2021
Rochester Petroleum was aquired.
2023
Premium Petroleum was acquired and the Lakeshore Family Partners was formed by Kurt Radermacher and R.W. Mercer.
2024
Lakeshore partners with Walt's Petroleum Service, Inc.
Team Members
- CEO and President - Kurt Radermacher
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Sales Operations Manager – Travis Rittenbach
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Director of Construction – Ryan Smith
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Director of Service – Bob Harrington
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Director of Facilities – Joe Nelson
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Director of Branches – Dustin Senjem
Industry Links
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