75 Years of American Manufacturing

Published: 2022

A Legacy That Started in 1947

In 1947, Autac USA began manufacturing retractile cords in North Branford, Connecticut. What started as a small operation serving local industry has grown into a nationally recognized name in coiled cord manufacturing. For 75 years, we have remained in the same town where it all began, committed to the craft that defines us.

From the beginning, Autac set out to build cords that last. That commitment to quality has never wavered, even as the world around us has changed dramatically. Through economic shifts, technological revolutions, and evolving industries, Autac has continued to do what we do best: manufacture reliable, American-made retractile cords.

Three Generations of Family Ownership

Autac has been a family-owned business since day one. Over the decades, leadership has passed through three generations, each bringing new energy while preserving the values that built the company. That continuity is rare in American manufacturing, and it shows in the relationships we maintain with customers who have been with us for decades.

Today, Autac is led by CEO Marie-Louise Burkle, making us the only 100% woman-owned retractile cord manufacturer in the industry. Under her leadership, the company has embraced new markets, expanded its product line, and strengthened its commitment to customer service — all while staying true to the principles that have guided Autac since 1947.

Milestones Along the Way

Seventy-five years of manufacturing brings with it a long list of accomplishments. Among the milestones we are most proud of:

• Achieving UL and CSA listings for our retractile cord products, ensuring they meet the highest safety and performance standards
• Expanding our material capabilities to include TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and TPR (thermoplastic rubber) alongside traditional PVC and polyurethane
• Growing from a regional supplier into a national manufacturer, serving industries from healthcare and telecommunications to food service and industrial automation
• Developing custom cord solutions for specialized applications, including medical devices, point-of-sale systems, and heavy-duty industrial equipment
• Maintaining continuous production in North Branford, Connecticut, through every challenge the decades have brought

Built for the Next 75 Years

As we celebrate this milestone, we are not simply looking back. Autac continues to invest in new materials, new configurations, and new ways to serve our customers. Our online cord configurator makes it easier than ever to design a custom retractile cord, and our expanded product catalog reflects the breadth of industries we serve.

We remain committed to manufacturing in the United States, to providing personal service from people who know our products inside and out, and to delivering cords that perform exactly as specified. That is the promise we made 75 years ago, and it is the promise we continue to keep.

Thank You

To our customers, partners, and the North Branford community: thank you for 75 years of trust. We could not have reached this milestone without you, and we look forward to serving you for many years to come.

Have questions or want to learn more about Autac? Contact us or call us toll-free at 800.243.3161.