ABOUT CHD
ABOUT CHD
Custom Hydraulics & Design provides both distribution and manufacturing of fluid power and fluid conveyance systems, with a focus on engineered solutions and value-added services. We work side by side with our clients to deliver dependable, application-driven components supported by technical expertise. By continually investing in new technologies and process enhancements, we help lower costs, boost performance, and ensure long-term reliability—keeping our customers safe and productive in the most demanding environments.
Mission Statement:
Custom Hydraulics & Design is a distributer and manufacturer of fluid power and fluid conveyance systems, specializing in engineered solutions and value-added services. We partner closely with clients to deliver reliable, application-specific components backed by expert support. Our continuous investment in new technologies and process improvements helps reduce costs, improve performance, and ensure long-term reliability—keeping our customers operating efficiently and safely in demanding environments.
Our Story
Founded in 1981 by Kelly and Sherry Watkins, Custom Hydraulics & Design began as a single hydraulic repair shop driven by a focus on service, technical expertise, and practical solutions. Over the past 42 years, CHD has expanded into a regionally integrated network of Hose Centers, industrial component retail locations, a centralized warehouse, and production facility in the Charlotte Founded in 1981 by Kelly and Sherry Watkins, Custom Hydraulics & Design began as a single hydraulic repair shop driven by a focus on service, technical expertise, and practical solutions. Over the past 42 years, CHD has expanded into a regionally integrated network of Hose Centers, industrial component retail locations, a centralized warehouse, and production facility in the Charlotte metropolitan area. This growth reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving demands of the fluid power and fluid conveyance industry with reliable products and responsive service.metropolitan area. This growth reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving demands of the fluid power and fluid conveyance industry with reliable products and responsive service.
TIMELINE
1981
Custom Hydraulics and Design was Established
Founded by Kelly and Sherry Watkins in a rented truck bay at Warlick Trucking on Mt. Holly Road in Charlotte.
1985
Moved to Atando Avenue
Move to Atando Avenue business park offering Hydraulic Component Repair service
1993
Moved to Statesville Ave
Relocating to the Statesville Avenue facility, our current Charlotte Retail location.
2000
Aeroquip Hose Center
CHD celebrates the Grand Opening of its Aeroquip Hose Center on Statesville Avenue in Charlotte, enhancing local support and product availability.
2000
CHD Launches Website
CHD launches its official website, www.customhydraulicsdesign.com, providing customers with direct access to company information, services, and contact resources.
2014
New CHD Logo
Custom Hydraulics and Design unveils a redesigned company logo, officially adopting the abbreviated brand identity 'CHD'.
2015
Mooresville Location Opens
Grand Opening of the CHD Mooresville Retail Hose Center, marking the expansion of our retail presence and commitment to serving customers in the Mooresville area.
2019
Passing of CHD Founder
The company mourns the passing of founder Kelly Watkins, whose vision and leadership laid the foundation for CHD’s success.
2021
New Warehouse and Production Facility
CHD marks the opening of its Cherryville Warehouse and Production Facilities, a key step in scaling operations and meeting growing customer demand.
2024
CNC Tube Bender up to 55mm
We’ve expanded our CNC bent tube capabilities and can now produce sizes up to 55mm—giving us more flexibility to serve a wider range of needs and applications.
2025
Launch of The Hose Store
CHD establishes The Hose Store brand, reinforcing our commitment to providing specialized hose products and creating a stronger connection with customers through a distinct retail identity.
Proud Members of NAHAD and NFPA
CHD is proud to be a member of NAHAD, the Association for Hose and Accessories Distribution, which connects industry leaders committed to excellence in hose safety, innovation, and quality standards. Through our involvement, we stay at the forefront of industry best practices, training, and certification, ensuring we deliver trusted solutions and expertise to our customers.
CHD is a proud member of the National Fluid Power Association (NFPA), an organization dedicated to advancing fluid power technology and promoting industry growth. By participating in NFPA programs and initiatives, we strengthen our expertise, stay connected with industry advancements, and contribute to shaping the future of fluid power solutions for our customers.
