Reading Truck Group is a truck body manufacturer located in Reading, Pennsylvania. The company does not build complete fire apparatus, but many Reading utility bodies have been used by fire departments for squad, light rescue, utility, brush, and command units. In the past the company has offered some utility bodies specifically designed for fire service use. Reading has also built custom rescue bodies for fire departments.
History[]
Reading was established as Reading Body Works Inc. in 1955 by Irving Suknow. It developed a line of utility bodies for various industries. In 1981 Reading introduced the first aluminum service truck body. The company changed its name to "Reading Truck Body" in 2003. In 2006, it was purchased by LLR Partners and made part of the Reading Group. In 2015 it was sold by LLR Partners to JB Poindexter & Co.
In 1960 Reading introduced two bodies intended for fire service use. The Model AR an open bed rescue unit, and the Model PR a full height enclosed rescue body. In 1977 Reading introduced a mini-pumper body. The company offered custom rescue bodies for light and medium duty trucks in the 1980s.