In addition to synchronizing the global packaging, SKF – inspired by the 140th anniversary (in 2018) of the founding of Chicago Rawhide (CR) – has decided to re-launch the CR Seals brand as a pure product brand within the SKF portfolio.

SKF, a provider of premium quality thrust ball bearing, seals and related products, recently introduced a new packaging design for its vehicle aftermarket products. This introduction was a continuation of a global roll out of the new packaging that started in 2016.

In addition to synchronizing the global packaging, SKF – inspired by the 140th anniversary (in 2018) of the founding of Chicago Rawhide (CR) – has decided to re-launch the CR Seals brand as a pure product brand within the SKF portfolio.

Chicago Rawhide, founded in 1878, became a well-known supplier of seals to a variety of industry segments, including automotive, industrial, truck and marine markets. CR was acquired by SKF in 1990 and the brand was eventually retired in 2007. Since then, CR has maintained high brand recognition in the market, where many channel partners still use the CR name.

The new packaging design stays true to the company’s traditional blue color for spherical roller bearing and green color for seals, and incorporates graphic elements that pay tribute to the long company history and SKF’s areas of expertise. The focal point of SKF’s new design is a zoomed-in graphic of its iconic wheel bearing.

“The success of SKF vehicle aftermarket products is rooted in aspects that remain universally important – a commitment to quality, longstanding technological expertise and a true sense of customer service,” said Don McEntee, head of marketing and business development, SKF Vehicle Service Market North America. “And, with the continued high brand recognition of Chicago Rawhide, bringing back the brand to recognize the heritage was a natural. Our new design highlights these values in a modern and dynamic way and reinforces SKF’s position as the leading brand for aftermarket products within our category.”