Founded by Rich Kent in 1959 in a Wilmette basement, Laurel Metal manufactures drop-shelf vending machines for self-service car washes, laundromats and restrooms. Now owned and operated by brothers Chip and Pat Kent, the Skokie company remains closely involved in both the engineering of new electronic systems and the repair of vending machines that have been working for decades. Laurel also stands out for its Made-in-the-USA production and unusually direct service, with customers able to speak with the owners about troubleshooting and repairs.