Forbes Company traces its history to Chicago, Illinois, where it was founded in 1865 as a manufacturer of rubber stamps, stencils and steel stamps. As a result of the Great Fire of 1871, the company reestablished operations in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Over the years, Forbes Company has continued to expand both in size and in capabilities, but the core of the business has remained faithful to its origins. Forbes Company is now one of the leading North American firms specializing in automated marking and part placement systems.