The CSI Story
In 1994 City Screen Inc was formed with the purchase of Pengo Products. Pengo Products, started by two brothers in 1947, had a long rich history of metal forming as well as window screen repair. The old owners espoused that Henry Ford mentality; you can have whatever you want, as long as it has wire screen and mill finish material.
When I was handed the keys to the 700 square foot shop and opened the doors, the first customer walked in and asked if we could do a screen in white and use fiberglass screen cloth. Our answer was “yes we can” at which point we knew three words would become the norm, rather than the exception, to accommodate our customers.
Over the years we have added the standard 1/4”, 5/16”, 3/8” and 7/16” roll-formed material, as well as extruded frame in 5 different colors. We then added flange material & reverse flange material, followed by patio door material in four colors. We also began to accommodate special orders, which we will continue to do. Then came the projected window screen frames, both roll formed and extruded. Our work orders increased significantly with the addition of pet proof screens, security screens, copper wire, pet products and window repair products. Oh, and by the way, did we mention that our business expanded so much that we moved three times over the years…we just kept running out of room ; ).
In late 2007 City Screen Inc purchased a company in Washington, Iowa who produced the Solar Home Products, SOLAR STEEL®, Screen and Storm Door product line, as well as the steel storm window product line. In 2008 we introduced the SOLAR STEEL DIAMOND TUFF UNIVERSAL SCREEN DOOR.
In 2009 we recognized the need for a website which could reach potential clients throughout the world. The web is a fantastic sales tool. We do not expect it to supersede our sales force or to replace our people who now answer the phone when you call. We expect it to enhance our commitment to our customer needs and requirements.
About the owner: Gary L. Langwell is the owner of City Screen Inc. and has been in the business for more than 35 years. At 10 years old it was expected for him to be part of his father’s business, as it was expected of a son to be, during the farm days of the 1800s and 1900s. My father did not want to be a farmer, as I did not want to be in the window business. When I graduated from college as a teacher in 1972, I saw the handwriting on the wall. I asked my dad if I could work for him. He replied, “No! You will work with me and you will get no special favors and you will learn your trade.” I could not have had a better teacher!
Sales is the oldest profession known to man or woman. A company has a product that is needed by a customer. It is the responsibility of a salesperson (the company) to offer the customer the product at a reasonable price, where you as the customer are accommodated and the company can make a profit and pay its employees and salespeople who all worked together to make that happen for you, our valued customer.
It is as simple as the above. Call us, and you will be treated with respect and the concern for your needs, that you deserve.
Gary L. Langwell
President
City Screen Inc
