Then & Now: Stellar 35th Anniversary Photo Gallery

12.15.25

As we wrap up our celebration of Stellar’s 35^th year in business, it’s natural to think of how far we’ve come as a company. From the story of how the company got its name to our complete transition to a 100% employee-owned company, much has changed over the decades. 

From Breaking Ground to Modern Facilities

Our headquarters in Garner, Iowa, has evolved from humble beginnings to today’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and office space. We’ve also expanded to include facilities in multiple locations throughout the Midwest.

Stellar Is America’s Hooklift Leader

Stellar began as the first U.S. corporation to design and manufacture a domestic hydraulic hooklift hoist. We’re proud of our continued hooklift leadership and of being the No. 1 hooklift brand in the country.

Expanding Product Line

Hooklifts were just the beginning. Over the years, we’ve added Mechanic Trucks, Service Cranes, Accessories, Tire Trucks & Manipulators, Container Trucks, Fuel & Lube Trucks, Fuel & Lube Trailers, Utility & Telecom Trailers and a range of Specialty Equipment. Our offering keeps growing, both through product development and acquisitions such as last year’s addition of Elliott Machine Works and the recent addition of Elliott Equipment Company.

We continue to build on past designs with improved features as well as develop new products. Here are just a couple examples from over the years.

Mechanic Trucks

Tire Trucks & Manipulators

Making Our Presence Known

Conversations with customers and distributors help us better understand real-world challenges so we can design equipment that meets needs and improves productivity. Throughout the decades, we’ve gone to a wide variety of trade shows and events all around the world. It’s always a pleasure to see old friends and to make new ones.

Dedicated Team

Of course, it’s the people here who maintain our reputation for innovation and quality. Every employee-owner is committed to high standards and customer service. Together with our customers and distributors, We Are Stellar.

More Innovations to Come

We’re proud of where we’ve been, and we’re even prouder of where we’re headed. Thanks for joining us on the journey.

If you have a Stellar photo or story to share, please submit it here. You can also stay connected with us in the years ahead by subscribing to our newsletter and our YouTube channel. For help with product selection or to discuss your needs, reach out to our knowledgeable sales team.