The Story of MFJ Enterprises Inc.

BY Marius Lubbe, ZS1ML - Cape Town, South Africa

Envision MFJ Enterprises, Inc., a corporation that originated from modest beginnings within the confines of a small hotel room in 1972, armed with a singular product and a vision. This paragon of quality and diversity in the realm of Radio Amateur was founded by Martin F. Jue. From its inception in the old Stark Hotel in downtown Starkville, Mississippi, MFJ has grown into a global powerhouse, all while maintaining its core values of dependability and diversity.

The company's journey began with the launch of a high selectivity filter, an innovative product designed to isolate a single Morse code signal from a sea of others. This product was a resounding success, selling thousands of units and laying the foundation for the MFJ we know today.

As the company expanded, so did its need for space. From a small hotel room to a large room in a building on Maxwell Street, then to a 600 square foot trailer, and back to Maxwell Street, MFJ was always on the move. The company's largest expansion came with a move to Louisville Street, where it occupied a building affectionately known as "MFJ Blue" for fifteen years. Today, the main administrative office, along with shipping, warehouse, and production facilities, are housed at 300 Industrial Park Road, a testament to the company's continuous growth.

MFJ's commitment to diversity is a cornerstone of its success. From the President, Martin F. Jue, whose family originally hailed from Cantox, China, to the factory worker, MFJ is a melting pot of cultures and ideas. This diversity extends to the company's product line, which is as varied as its workforce. Whether it's the Metalworks Department, the Antenna Shop, or Mirage Communication's Equipment, MFJ's offerings cater to a wide range of needs and preferences.

Despite initial challenges in gaining the support of dealers and distributors, MFJ's focus on quality and innovation led to a surge in demand for its products. Today, MFJ is represented by over two hundred dealers in the United States, forty overseas, and ten in Canada, with a presence in major cities across the globe.

At the heart of MFJ's success is its commitment to innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development, constantly seeking to create new products that meet the evolving needs of its customers. From letters and phone calls to in-person requests at hamfests, MFJ listens to its customers and uses their feedback to drive product development.

MFJ's commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of its operations. From the metalworking shop to the antenna shop, every product starts as an idea and is brought to life through a rigorous process of design, production, and quality testing. This commitment to quality is encapsulated in the company's slogan, "Making Quality Affordable," which has resonated with the ham radio community.

MFJ's customer service is second to none. The company offers a one-year unconditional warranty, aptly named the "NO MATTER WHAT" warranty, and a toll-free technical help support line for customers needing help or advice with a ham radio project.

As the world of amateur radio continues to grow, so does MFJ. With a continuously expanding base of new ham customers, MFJ is poised to maintain its stature as the World Leader in ham radio accessories, equipment, and service for many years to come. Through its commitment to quality, diversity, and customer service, MFJ embodies the spirit of a dependable, quality-based company with the heart of a Radio Amateur.