OUR STORY

Archer Sales Company, the precursor to PEER Chain, opened between 1942-1944. We know that our Uncle Oscar sent a telegram to Grandpa Nate Spungen at the storefront location from a post on the German front during WWII.

Grandpa Nate Spungen and his partner at the time standing in front of Archer Sales at 1931 South State Street in Chicago

Nate’s sons, Laurence and Kenneth, start to import ball bearings from Japan around December 1960 under the brand name “PEER”. During this time, industrial chain was being sold by their sales force.

Laurence was a pioneer in exploring business options in China when he and his wife Florence climbed the Great Wall. PEER Chain develops a solid foundation of supply from Taiwan.

All PEER Companies moved their offices and warehouse to Wheeling, IL.

Danny Spungen’s first trip to China and Taiwan.

Laurence begins building his first manufacturing facility in Xingchang, Zhejiang, China, which was completed in 1997. PEER Chain begins to explore options in Thailand.

After 20 years in Wheeling, IL, the PEER companies move all operations to Waukegan, IL. PEER Chain moved into a 155,000 square foot complex in 2001.

PEER Chain enjoys rapid growth domestically and internationally (Mexico, Argentina, England and Czech Republic). The Spungen’s continue to have factories built in Argentina, Lithuania and Thailand! Attempts in Vietnam were interesting but resulted in an “educational experience”!

The Spungen family sells their flagship bearing company, but retains other divisions including PEER Chain.

Glenn Spungen joins his brother Danny and cousins Charles and Jeffrey and becomes President of PEER Chain. Photo (left to right): Glenn, Jeffrey, Danny and Charles.