PGI Announces Relaunch of TRICO®, Building on More Than a Century of Wiper Innovation
TRICO ICE ® launches in November 2026 ahead of the winter season, followed by a comprehensive new portfolio in January 2027 MEMPHIS, Tenn., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Premium Guard Inc. (PGI) , a leading global manufacturer and supplier of automotive products and solutions, today announced the relaunch of TRICO ® , one of the automotive industry’s most established names in windshield wiper technology, with a new generation of products built on more than a century of accumulated engineering knowledge, innovation and intellectual property. TRICO’s history dates to 1917, when the company introduced its Rain Rubber, recognized as the first mass-produced commercially available windshield wiper blade. Over the decades that followed, TRICO has built extensive know-how and IP across wiper technology, vehicle applications, attachment systems, and installation solutions. Through its acquisition of TRICO-related IP, patents, engineering know-how and technical assets, PGI is…
Premium Guard Inc. Recognized as a 2026 MOTOR Top 20 Awards Winner
Febreze Cabin Air Filters combine PUREFLOW ® filtration technology with trusted odor-neutralizing performance to deliver a cleaner, fresher in-vehicle experience MEMPHIS, Tenn., Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Premium Guard Inc. (PGI) , a leading filter manufacturer and supplier, today announced that its Febreze Cabin Air Filters have been named a winner of the 2026 MOTOR Top 20 Awards Competition, recognizing innovation and excellence in the automotive aftermarket. While more than 250 million vehicles across North America have cabin air filters, consumer awareness and replacement rates remain low. PGI’s Febreze Cabin Air Filters combine a trusted consumer brand with PUREFLOW ® multi-layer filtration technology to help capture airborne contaminants and neutralize unwanted odors-without adding fragrance or restricting airflow-for a cleaner, fresher driving experience. “It’s an incredible honor to be recognized by MOTOR as a Top 20 Award winner for the second year i…
PGI and Mattel Announce Multi-Brand Licensing Agreement to Bring Iconic Automotive Brands to Collectible Toys and Consumer Products
MEMPHIS, Tenn. - August 11, 2026 - Premium Guard Inc. (PGI) , a leading filter manufacturer and supplier, today announced a new long-term licensing agreement with Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT), a leading global play and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world, to bring several of PGI's most recognized automotive brands to collectible vehicles, construction toys, trading cards, playsets, and other consumer products. The agreement includes licensing rights for brands such as FRAM, Autolite, TRICO, and Luberfiner, expanding these iconic automotive brands into new consumer categories while introducing them to collectors, enthusiasts, and future generations of automotive fans around the world. Under the agreement, Mattel will have the ability to incorporate the licensed brands across a broad portfolio of products, including die-cast vehicle replicas, construction toys, playsets, collectible trading cards, and related accessories. "This co…
PGI Appoints Jamie Schroeder as Chief Financial Officer
MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 21, 2026 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI) , a leading filter manufacturer and supplier, today announced the appointment of Jamie Schroeder as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Schroeder joins PGI with more than 30 years of executive finance and operational leadership experience spanning manufacturing, consumer products, retail, and global supply chains. Throughout his career, he has led financial transformation, strategic planning, M&A, and operational initiatives that have driven long-term value creation. Most recently, Schroeder served in executive finance leadership roles in the retail space, including Big Lots, where he led a company-wide transformation initiative focused on improving profitability, operational efficiency, and long-term business performance. Prior to that, he spent more than 16 years at Scotts Miracle-Gro, where he last served as CFO of the company's $3B North American Consumer business. He began his career at Ford Motor Company, spending 10 years in…
Premium Guard Inc. Revives Historic Champion Labs Facility in Albion, Illinois, Bringing Nearly 200 Manufacturing Jobs Back to the Community
Albion facility reopening demonstrates PGI's commitment to American manufacturing and supply chain resiliency MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a pioneer and leading filter manufacturer and supplier, today announced plans to reopen the former Champion Laboratories facility in Albion, Illinois, initially restoring nearly 200 manufacturing and operational jobs to the region while reestablishing one of the most recognized names in the filtration industry. PGI officially closed its acquisition of First Brands Group's Champion Labs assets along with related assets from the legacy Fram facility in Greenville, Ohio. This is a significant investment in American manufacturing, domestic supply chain capabilities, and the revitalization of a facility that has long served as an economic cornerstone for the Albion community. Champion Labs was originally founded in West Salem, Illinois in 1955, and the facility ceased operations earlier this year, resulting in…
Premium Guard Inc. Completes Phase 2 Acquisition of First Brands Group Assets, Expanding U.S. Manufacturing, R&D, Distribution and Workforce Capabilities
MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Premium Guard Inc . (PGI), a leading filter manufacturer and supplier, today announced the successful completion of Phase 2 of its acquisition of key assets of First Brands Group (FBG), further strengthening PGI's domestic manufacturing capabilities, engineering resources, North American distribution network, and employment base. The transaction includes advanced production lines for oil, air, and cabin air filters located in Albion, Illinois, as well as key manufacturing equipment from the legacy FRAM facility in Greenville, Ohio. The Greenville assets will be consolidated into the Albion facility, creating one of the industry's most advanced filtration manufacturing operations in North America. As part of the transaction, PGI has also acquired a state-of-the-art R&D center and laboratory dedicated to filtration technologies and water separation systems. The facility will serve as a center of excellence for product engineering, materials…
PGI Completes Successful Acquisition of Legacy Brands & Broad IP Portfolio
MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 16, 2026 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a pioneer and leading filter manufacturer and supplier, announced the successful completion of its acquisition of key intellectual property and related assets from First Brands Group. The transaction, announced in March, has now officially closed following the successful completion of all required approvals and customary closing conditions, marking a major milestone in PGI's continued growth. This milestone marks a significant step forward in PGI's strategy to expand its product portfolio, accelerate innovation, and strengthen its position as a global leader in the automotive aftermarket. The acquisition includes a broad portfolio of patents, engineering know-how, and technical capabilities across multiple product categories, including wiper blades, spark plugs, and lift support. It also includes intellectual property and assets associated with well-known automotive brands such as Autolite, FRAM, TRICO, ANCO, LuberFiner, and…
PGI Expands Its Portfolio and Global Reach Through Acquisition of Key IP Assets
MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 27, 2026 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a leading filter manufacturer and supplier founded in 1996, announced it has signed an agreement to acquire key intellectual property and related assets from First Brands Group. The transaction is subject to bankruptcy court approval, among other closing conditions, and is expected to close in early April. This agreement represents an important step in strengthening PGI's product offering and development capabilities, while maintaining its core focus as a leading supplier of private label programs. Over the past three decades, PGI has built a robust global supply chain, an expansive distribution network, and strong capabilities in product management, engineering, and category management. The addition of these intellectual property assets enhances PGI's ability to further develop its product offering, accelerate innovation, and support customers across multiple segments and geographies. "This is a meaningful step forward for P…
MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 16, 2026 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a pioneer and leading filter manufacturer and supplier, has been honored with the Spirit of NAPA Award at the 2026 NAPA Partnership Event in Atlanta, recognizing the company's outstanding partnership, performance, and commitment to supporting the NAPA Auto Parts network. The Spirit of NAPA Award is the highest honor NAPA grants to a single supplier each year, recognizing partners that exemplify the core values of the NAPA brand, including performance, commitment, innovation, and shared success. Premium Guard Inc. was selected for its continued investment in product innovation, operational excellence, and dedication to supporting NAPA stores and customers across the country. Alain Masse, North American President of NAPA Auto Parts, presented the award, stating: "This supplier has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to NAPA's success with an exceptional 96%+ fill rate, in one of the most challenging categories. They made a si…
Premium Guard Inc. Earns Top O'Reilly Auto Parts Supplier Honor for the Second Year in a Row
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 21, 2026 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a pioneer and leading filter manufacturer and supplier, earned dual supplier-honors from O'Reilly Auto Parts at the annual O'Reilly Leadership Conference. The awards were presented at the conference awards ceremony on January 14, 2026, in Houston, Texas. PGI was recognized as the Supplier of the Year Award for the second consecutive year, recognizing exceptional product quality, supply chain reliability, and overall execution in support of O'Reilly Auto Parts and its customers. Additionally, PGI earned the Omnichannel Partnership Award, a new honor recognizing suppliers who contribute to effective in-store and online merchandising strategies and initiatives. "Being named Supplier of the Year by O'Reilly Auto Parts for the second year in a row, alongside recognition for our omnichannel partnership, is an incredible achievement and a reflection of the consistency, discipline, and dedication of our entire team," said Anan Bishara…
Premium Guard Inc. to Exhibit at HDAW 2026, Showcasing a New Brand Identity, ViAQ Innovation, and Expanded Heavy-Duty Coverage
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 13, 2026 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a pioneer and leading filter manufacturer and supplier, announced today that it will exhibit at Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) 2026, taking place January 19-22 in Grapevine, Texas. Attendees are invited to visit Booth #117 to experience Premium Guard's bold new brand identity and discover the depth and breadth of Premium Guard's heavy-duty aftermarket product offerings. Premium Guard's heavy-duty filtration program delivers industry-leading application coverage with precision-engineered filters designed to meet or exceed OEM fit, form, and function requirements. The portfolio spans an extensive range of oil, air, cabin air, transmission, coolant, hydraulic, fuel, fuel/water separator, and DEF urea filters, giving distributors and service providers access to one of the most complete heavy-duty assortments in the market. Designed for the demands of commercial service, Premium Guard's heavy-duty program focuses on uptime, dur…
Premium Guard Inc. Named 2025 E-Commerce Vendor of the Year by Advance Auto Parts
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 12, 2026 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a pioneer and leading filter manufacturer and supplier, has been named 2025 E-Commerce Vendor of the Year by Advance Auto Parts. The award was presented during Advance Auto Parts' annual vendor appreciation and leadership kickoff event, Accelerate, held in Orlando, Florida on January 5th. The E-Commerce Vendor of the Year award recognizes partners that demonstrate exceptional collaboration, execution, and performance across digital platforms-delivering best-in-class content, seamless customer experiences, and consistent operational excellence. PGI's recognition reflects its continued investment in digital merchandising, robust application and product data, and enhanced digital assets and product content designed to streamline and facilitate the online shopping experience. Through disciplined application coverage, reliable lookup performance, and a first-to-market commitment on new product launches, PGI works closely with Advan…
Premium Guard Inc. Announces Licensing Partnership with Procter & Gamble to Launch Febreze™ Cabin Air Filters
MEMPHIS, Tenn., December 9, 2025 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality automotive filtration products, announced a new licensing agreement with Procter & Gamble (P&G) to develop, distribute and sell Febreze™ Cabin Air Filters powered by PUREFLOW® Air Filtration Technology - bringing to market the trusted brand equity of Febreze with PUREFLOW®'s proven performance to redefine vehicle interior air quality (ViAQ™). The new line is built on PUREFLOW®'s advanced multi-layer filtration technology, combining high-efficiency particulate filtration with advanced activated charcoal and odor-neutralizing compounds to deliver superior odor elimination, optimal airflow and lasting freshness. Each filter is engineered to capture dust, pollen, exhaust gases, and other airborne contaminants while neutralizing odors. "We're proud to partner with P&G to bring the power of Febreze into the automotive space through Premium Guard's advanced PUREFLOW® filtration t…
Premium Guard Inc's New ViAQ Diagnostic Tool Earns Top Honors from the Auto Care Association
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Nov. 5, 2025 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality automotive filtration products, has been honored by the Import Vehicle Community of the Auto Care Association for its latest innovation, ViAQ Diagnostic Tool (Vehicle Interior Air Quality). As part of its annual Import Product and Marketing Awards, ViAQ earned the title of Best Repair Solution or Tool for Import Vehicles . For more than two decades, cabin air filters have been an essential, yet often overlooked component in modern vehicles, shielding drivers and passengers from dust, pollen, and harmful particulates. Despite their importance, no reliable or scientific method existed to measure a filter's true performance. Traditionally, replacement decisions relied on mileage estimates or visual checks that can easily miss deeply embedded contaminants, invisible to the naked eye. ViAQ revolutionizes that process. It's the first and only diagnostic technology designed to evalua…
Premium Guard<sup>®</sup> Unveils New Brand Identity Reflecting Innovation, Agility, and Reliability Across a Growing Product Ecosystem
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Nov. 3, 2025 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality automotive filtration products, unveils a comprehensive rebrand of its product line identity-introducing a modernized logo, refreshed color system, and cohesive visual language designed to unify all Premium Guard® products under one bold and contemporary look. The new identity marks the most significant update in the brand's 25-year history and extends well beyond filtration. It now represents the complete Premium Guard® product ecosystem, including automotive filters for light-duty, heavy-duty, and powersports applications, as well as thermostats, radiator and oil caps, hose clamps, gloves, and other ancillary products. "This rebrand is about more than just a new look-it's about unifying the Premium Guard® product family and reflecting the forward momentum of our company," said Anan Bishara, CEO & Founder of Premium Guard Inc. (PGI). "While PGI remains the corporate engine be…
Premium Guard Inc. Partners with Donut Media to Bring Automotive Filtration to a New Generation of Car Enthusiasts
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Oct. 16, 2025 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a leading supplier of automotive and power-sport filtration solutions, has announced a new partnership with Donut Media , one of the most influential automotive content brands in the U.S. The collaboration will bring Premium Guard filters to a new generation of car enthusiasts through engaging storytelling, creative integrations, and real-world automotive content. The partnership marks a key milestone in PGI's strategy to expand its digital footprint and connect directly with the automotive community across Donut's expansive social and video platforms. Premium Guard products will be featured in sponsored integrations across Donut's flagship content series on YouTube, introducing millions of viewers to the brand's industry-leading filtration technology. "Donut Media has built an unmatched connection with the next generation of car enthusiasts," said Anan Bishara, Founder and CEO of Premium Guard Inc. "Partnering with Donut allo…
Premium Guard Inc. Recognized as a 2025 MOTOR Top 20 Awards Winner
MEMPHIS, Tenn., September 3, 2025 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), an automotive manufacturer and supplier, announced today that its patent-pending ViAQ™ (Vehicle Interior Air Quality, pronounced "VAQ") Diagnostic Tool has been named a winner of the 2025 MOTOR Top 20 Awards, honoring innovation and excellence in the automotive aftermarket. Over the past two decades, cabin air filters have become a staple in nearly every modern vehicle, protecting drivers and passengers from dust, pollen, and harmful particulates. Yet despite their importance, there has never been a methodical, reliable, and scientific way to measure a filter's actual performance in use. Until now, replacement decisions have relied largely on mileage estimates or visual inspection-methods that often fail to detect embedded fine particles that the naked eye cannot see. ViAQ changes that. It is the first and only diagnostic technology designed to evaluate cabin air filter performance by analyzing the air inside the vehicle.…
Premium Guard Inc. Ranks on the 2025 Inc. 5000 List of America's Fastest-Growing Private Companies
MEMPHIS, Tenn., August 12, 2025 -- /PRNewswire/ -- Inc., the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future, today announced that Premium Guard Inc. (PGI) ranks on the annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list provides a data-driven snapshot of the most successful companies within the economy's most dynamic segment-its independent, entrepreneurial businesses. Past honorees include companies such as Microsoft, Meta, Chobani, Under Armour, Timberland, Oracle, and Patagonia. This recognition marks a major milestone for PGI, an automotive manufacturer and supplier committed to transforming the automotive aftermarket. From humble beginnings, it has grown into a trusted industry leader by delivering advanced, complete solutions-offering best-in-class quality products, unmatched application coverage, and cutting-edge demand forecasting models. The focus on innovation, preci…
Premium Guard Inc Executive Vice President Ty Nilsson Appointed to CAWA Manufacturers' Advisory Council
MEMPHIS, Tenn., May 28, 2025 -- Premium Guard Inc, an automotive manufacturer and supplier, is proud to announce the appointment of Ty Nilsson, Executive Vice President of Sales, to the Manufacturers' Advisory Council (MAC) of CAWA - Representing the Automotive Parts Industry. Nilsson was appointed by Wayne Schaack, Chair of the CAWA Board of Directors and representative of the Pronto Network. In his new role, Nilsson will represent Premium Guard on the Council and provide strategic insight to support CAWA's mission of advancing the automotive aftermarket through education, advocacy, and industry collaboration. "I'm honored to join the CAWA Manufacturers' Advisory Council and represent Premium Guard among such a respected group of industry leaders," said Nilsson. "CAWA plays a critical role in supporting and advancing the automotive aftermarket, and I look forward to contributing to its ongoing mission and making a positive impact across the industry." CAWA is one of the nation's prem…
Premium Guard Inc. Receives Prestigious Standout Star Award from Fisher Auto Parts
MEMPHIS, Tenn., May 12, 2025 -- Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality automotive filtration products, has been honored with the Standout Star Award from Fisher Auto Parts. The award, presented to PGI on April 29 recognizes the company's exceptional performance, collaborative spirit, and ongoing commitment to supporting Fisher Auto Parts' success. The Standout Star Award is presented to Premium Guard for superior achievement, partnership, and overall support. Fisher Auto Parts recognized the PGI team as an Extraordinary Supplier Partner, commending their valuable contributions and dedication to mutual growth. "Receiving the Standout Star Award is a tremendous honor for our entire team," said Ty Nilsson, Executive Vice President of Sales at Premium Guard Inc. "It reflects the deep commitment we have to our partners and the pride we take in delivering consistent quality, innovation, and support. We value our relationship with Fisher Auto Parts and…
Premium Guard Inc. Wins Award from AutoZone Mexico Honoring Excellence in Quality Performance, Category Management and Data Analytics
MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Automotive manufacturer and supplier Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), achieved a major milestone at the annual AutoZone Mexico Vendor Summit in Cancun, Mexico on April 9 by winning the prestigious "What It Takes To Do The Job Right" (WITTDTJR) award. The award is given annually to companies that demonstrate innovation, attention to detail, and customer commitment. "PGI has dedicated time and resources to understand our market and the needs of our operations team," said Andy Brito, Director of Merchandising at AutoZone Mexico. "Their efforts have led to the development of selling tools and training material to support territorial managers and close more sales. Ultimately, PGI has concentrated on space optimization and improving inventory productivity. These combined efforts have successfully positioned the aftermarket category as a destination and have helped establish AutoZone as the market leader." PGI was also recognized for bringing bulk pack…
PGI Earns Double Recognition from O’Reilly Auto Parts, Including Prestigious Top Supplier Award
MEMPHIS, TN, January 29th 2025 - Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), www.premiumguard.com , achieved a major milestone at the annual O'Reilly Leadership Conference, held in Houston, Texas, from January 22-24. PGI was honored with two prestigious awards, underscoring the company's exceptional commitment to performance, innovation, and partnership in the automotive aftermarket industry. PGI received the highly coveted Supplier of the Year award, a key achievement that recognizes the company's outstanding performance in delivering high-quality products, operational reliability, and unwavering support to O'Reilly Auto Parts and its customers. The award reflects PGI's ability to consistently meet O'Reilly's standards, provide seamless supply chain execution, and contribute to the success of O'Reilly's operations and growth strategy. Additionally, PGI was honored with the Content and Omnichannel Award, acknowledging its exceptional efforts in supporting O'Reilly's catalog and online platforms. PGI's…
MEMPHIS, TN, January 28th 2025 - Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), www.premiumguard.com , unveils an exciting redesign of its PWR Steer brand website, showcasing Installation Ready™ power steering products with a bold new online presence. The revamped website boasts a cutting-edge, sleek interface that reflects the brand's commitment to innovation and customer-centric design. This state-of-the-art digital platform delivers an unparalleled user experience, featuring a modern, streamlined design for effortless navigation, advanced search capabilities for swift product location, comprehensive product specifications at users' fingertips, and an intuitive layout optimized for seamless browsing. The upgraded website serves as a powerhouse of information, offering in-depth educational resources, detailed installation guides, expert tips, and valuable industry insights. PWR Steer's extensive document libraries now feature both video and written content, empowering customers with the knowledge and too…
Premium Guard Inc. Wins Professional Excellence Champion Award from Advance Auto Parts
MEMPHIS, TN, January 23rd 2025 - Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), www.premiumguard.com , a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality automotive products, has been awarded the Professional Excellence Champion award at the first-ever Advance Auto Parts Accelerate event. The inaugural award ceremony took place on Monday, January 20th, in Orlando, Florida, marking a significant milestone in recognizing supplier excellence in the automotive aftermarket industry. The Professional Excellence Champion award, newly established and exclusive to Advance Auto Parts (AAP) suppliers, recognizes PGI's outstanding support of AAP's professional sales team and customers. This inaugural accolade highlights PGI's exceptional performance and its pivotal role in driving substantial sales growth for AAP's professional business segment. At the heart of this achievement is PGI's unwavering commitment to putting customers first, ensuring that every initiative is designed to enhance the end-user experience and…
