StayPut Sales, Inc.
P.O. Box 7305, Winter Haven, Florida 33883-7305 USA
136 Patterson Drive, Auburndale, Florida 33823 USA
Tel/FAX: 863-965-1272 or 863-967-4284
E-Mail: maxnjim@gate.net Web Site: www.stayputsales.com

The StayPut concept first came from Frank Griffin, a commercial/industrial electrician, who went to a friend Frank Barrom, a welder, to develop the idea as a fabricated multiple metal piece. Soon realizing that the StayPut would be too expensive; they turned to another friend, Dale Workman, an injection molder, to make the item from plastic. The first version was completed; a patent was submitted; and a production run was made. During the product development the slogan "Conduits Stay Where You Put Them" seemed an appropriate description for the new item which was shortened to "StayPut" for the second half of the name. The first half of the name is "FRANKS"; not FRANKS' or FRANK'S like you might think, for Frank Griffen and Frank Barrom. The FRANKS StayPut, Inc. corporation was formed by Frank and Frank to develop the idea and make the item. A patent application was submitted. Limited marketing began. Soon, it became very apparent that the idea was good; but, there were glitches in the design, short falls in capital, and the marketing strategy just wasn't working.

During the process above, Frank Barrom met Max P. Duncan; and later, James S. Hammond of The DUNCAN-HAMMOND Company. The principals individually and The DUNCAN-HAMMOND Company have experience marketing several generic and well known international, national and regional proprietary name brands. Intrigued by the fledgling conceptual product; Max and Jim worked out an agreement with Frank and Frank. To meet the challenge a new Florida corporation, StayPut Sales, Inc., was formed by Max and Jim to finish a practical design, complete the patent, efficiently manufacture and successfully market the FRANKS StayPut.

Over the next several months the FRANKS StayPut was scrutinized for market acceptance. Since over 70% of the rigid conduit sold is 3/4" in diameter; the initial focus was directed at this size. The stake of choice clearly was either 1/2" diameter EMT conduit or 5/8" diameter ReBar. To date it has taken 16 mold changes. Existing size parameters were modified to accommodate conduit size variances within the industry ANSI or UL specifications. Raw materials were further evaluated and selected for the work environment, flexibility and durability. New features were added to achieve broader use and make the product more user friendly. A final patent submission was made.

Today the FRANKS StayPut is made from high density thermoplastic giving it enough rigidity for desired spacial tolerances yet flexibility and memory integrity for ease of installation. Close tolerance ranges on each tapered opening along with carefully placed splines; make for a uniquely snug fit, every time. The product comes in two versions, the original "Closed-Loop", or the new "Clip-On". The "Clip-On" version is equipped with a self-tightening strap to hold the conduits and stake firmly in place. Each version may be preferred for a particular application. A raised tab has been added for use with self taping screws while attaching flexible conduit, cable or any other item to construction support members.

Next, knowing that the FRANKS StayPut is a "one-of-a-kind" with no competitors in the market place; an aggressive marketing program was directed at informing and educating electrical contractors with an emphasis on the largest contractors.

The end is not in sight. On the drawing board for the near future:

1. Additional Sizes: 1/2", 1", 1-1/4", 1-1/2"

2. Additional Configurations of sizes in the same block

3. Additional Configurations to gang or align multiple conduits

4. Additional Alternative Uses