Since 1924
Always leading the way
For support with new quotes, orders, design assistance, product availability and/or technology research
In 1924, Mel Foster began operations. Since that time, we have seen the birth of new technologies, witnessed the evolution of component systems and embraced the emergence of the digital platforms. Today, we are one of the most respected technology manufacturer representatives in the United States. We have global partnerships with leading semiconductor, passive device and embedded system manufacturers and distributors. Our team of sales representatives and field engineers possess unparalleled experience, skill and expertise.
We are 100% employee owned, headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota and operate in North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Illinois, Kansas and Missouri. Everyone in our company is invested in our success. We stay on the leading edge of the technology market through continuing education, industry forums and our own thirst for leadership. Thousands of customers rely on our exceptional ability to deliver technology solutions and our reputation speaks volumes in our region and across the nation.
Call Today
A Brief History
From humble beginnings to one of the most respected technology manufacturer representatives
Company founded by Melville E. Foster as a “radio parts jobber”
1924
Melville Foster invents a one-tube radio – a revolutionary invention at the time.
1926
Melville Foster invents and patents the “Rollfax”, a shelf fixture used to keep product data organized and accessible.
1949
Mel’s son Gene Foster assumes role of President and General Manager of the Mel Foster Company, Mel becomes Chairman of the Board of Directors.
1966
Mel Foster Company one of the first Electronics Reps in the country to designate a full time distribution manager.
1968
Company Founder, Mel Foster, dies at the age of 80.
1980
Mel Foster Company one of the first Electronics Reps in the country to staff a full-time Field Applications Engineer.
1982
Gene Foster retires and the company becomes an ESOP. Lanny Barness assumes role of President at Mel Foster.
1995
Mel Foster Company one of the first Electronics Reps in the country to establish a website.
1996
Mel Foster Company becomes 100% employee owned.
2000
Mel Foster Company acquires Rep Associates to establish an office presence in the Iowa market.
2001
Lanny Barness retires and Mike Swenson assumes role of President at Mel Foster.
2003
Mel Foster Company establishes its Systems and Solutions Group to focus on delivering board and system level solutions to its customers – one of the first reps in the country to do so.
2006
Mel Foster Company partners with Spectrum Sales in MS and KS markets to create Midwest Sales Alliance.
2007
Mel Foster and EAS Sales enter into a sub-rep agreement to represent International Rectifier in the Eastern Wisconsin/Illinois market place. Mel Foster and EAS subsequently merge and officially come together on September 1, 2010 , increasing the Mel Foster coverage area to seven states.
2010
Mel Foster acquires Eagle Technical Sales in the IL market, effectively increasing their overall presence in that market place.
2015
Previous
Next
Mel Foster Company
Our depth of knowledge, technical design expertise and experience spans a broad range of component and embedded system technology, fueling our industry leadership since 1924. We possess an unparalleled drive for innovation, delivery and customer satisfaction. Contact us for support with new quotes, orders, design assistance, product availability and/or technology research.
PROUD MEMBERS OF:

Line Card
BROWSE BY CATEGORY
Contact
MN, WI & ND
952-941-9790
5850 Opus Parkway, Suite 120
Minnetonka, MN 55343
IA, MO, KS
3850 River Ridge Drive
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
SD, NE
952-946-5274
7401 East Palomino Road
Sioux Falls, SD 57110