The surface preparation and finishing machinery company Wheelabrator Group, (www.wheelabratorgroup.com) is celebrating its 100th year in business.

The company was founded in Pittsburgh in 1908 by Verne E. Minich. It now has 1,250 employees in 17 countries.

"The group is extremely delighted to have achieved this historic milestone. We believe our long-term success is attributable to a continual emphasis on technology, innovation and unparalleled customer service," Robert E. Joyce Jr., chief executive of Wheelabrator Group, said in a prepared statement.

"We supply surface preparation solutions to all industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical and foundries, and we have a full understanding of individual requirements which enables us to make existing processes stronger, faster and more efficient, be this via new machine installations, upgrades or services," Joyce said. "Providing innovative solutions for our customers will remain at the heart of our business, and I hope customers and employees alike will continue to celebrate future successes with us."

Wheelabrator Group provides surface preparation and finishing products and machinery around the world.