Shop-Vac Taps Industry Veteran for Chief Operations Officer Role

Recognized wet/dry vacuum systems company looks to transform corporate culture and drive overall growth

Charlie Lawrence, chief operations officer, Shop-Vac. (Photo: Business Wire)

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa.--()--Shop-Vac USA, LLC, the brand leader in wet/dry vacuum systems for consumer and commercial applications, announced today that Charles “Charlie” Lawrence has been named the company’s new chief operations officer. Lawrence brings over 35 years of industry experience to Shop-Vac’s leadership team, with a proven track record of accelerating growth and revenue for Fortune 500 and private equity-backed companies nationwide.

In his new role, Lawrence will focus on product innovation, manufacturing, sales distribution and strategic planning to help gain momentum across all facets of business development. Lawrence will also implement new strategies and practices to foster an entrepreneurial, performance-based culture. He will report to Gary DuBoff, group president, GreatStar Tools USA in addition to working closely with the Shop-Vac management teams to oversee daily operations, including the company’s headquarters in Williamsport, PA.

“Charlie is a highly accomplished leader in the industry, with an undeniable knack for putting employees and customers first. We are thrilled to welcome Charlie to our Shop-Vac executive team, as he’s proven to be an incredible asset within the industrial and consumer space,” said DuBoff. “As our businesses continue to grow, Charlie’s years of experience and background in maintaining positive company culture while driving successful results fit perfectly into our long-term Shop-Vac strategy.”

Most recently, Lawrence served as president for Workrite Ergonomics, an industry leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of height-adjustable work centers and ergonomic office accessories based in Petaluma, CA. Under Lawrence’s management, Workrite doubled company revenue while earning a spot on the Best Places to Work in the North Bay list from 2016 to 2019. In addition to Workrite, Lawrence has served in sales, product, and brand management roles at esteemed companies such as General Electric, Coleman, Brunswick, and Masco Corporation.

“Shop-Vac is a household name that has served both tradespeople and homeowners for decades. I’m excited to reinvigorate the brand’s loyal following and expand distribution throughout North America and beyond,” said Lawrence. “With a new vision for growth and innovation, Shop-Vac will not only maintain its reputation as a brand leader in the category but work toward delivering products that meet the industry’s evolving trends and of course, our customers’ changing needs.”

In December 2020, GreatStar, the leading manufacturer of hand tools in Asia, serving DIY, professional and industrial markets worldwide, acquired Shop-Vac. As part of the acquisition, GreatStar is committed to investing in expanding Shop-Vac’s industry leadership built on best-in-class innovation, features, value and manufacturing ability – utilizing a mix of both Asia-based and US-based manufacturing.

About Shop-Vac, LLC

Headquartered in Williamsport, PA, Shop-Vac is the brand leader in wet/dry vacuum systems for consumer and commercial applications. A pioneer in the heavy-duty vacuum system category and serving workshops, garages, factories and other demanding applications since 1965, the brand also offers accessories ranging from wet and dry filters, replacement vacuum parts and sawdust collection systems. For more information, visit www.shopvac.com.

About Hangzhou GreatStar Industrial Co., Ltd.

Established in 1993, GreatStar is the leading manufacturer of hand tools in Asia, serving DIY, professional and industrial markets worldwide. GreatStar also manufactures a full range of specialty tools for drywall, masonry, painting, tiling, plumbing and automotive applications, as well as power tools, tool sets and flashlights. GreatStar’s culture of innovation, firm commitment to R&D and extensive customer insight ensure their leading brands and high-quality products meet the specific needs of the consumers and professionals they serve. For more information, visit www.greatstartools.com.

Contacts

Jillian Hammell
Crowley Webb for Shop-Vac
jillian.hammell@crowleywebb.com, 716.856.2932 x237

Contacts

Jillian Hammell
Crowley Webb for Shop-Vac
jillian.hammell@crowleywebb.com, 716.856.2932 x237