Chester Hoist’s dedication to quality, service, and value has been evident for more than 60 years. The brand continues to lead the material handling industry in complex and innovative customized solutions to high-value problems.

Chester's established models of "Zephyr" low headroom hoists have contributed to Chester's reputation of exceeding the needs of the customer. Although Chester offers a complete line of standard products, the brand is best known for producing one-of-a-kind hoists based on the stringent requirements of the customer.

Chester Hoist dates back to the 1920s when Hal Wright Sr. developed the Wright Hoist in Lisbon, Ohio. In 1942, Hal Wright Jr. followed his father into the business starting the Chester Manufacturing Company. Since the 1940's high-quality standards and qualification testing have positioned Chester Hoist as a major supplier of hoists to the U.S. Military. Chester Hoist is still the only qualified supplier for certain classes of hoists for the Department of Defense.

In 1986 Chester Hoist purchased the Coffing Worm Drive Electric Wire Rope Hoist line from the Duff-Norton Company. In 1989 Chester Hoist began manufacturing ultra low headroom electric chain hoists alongside the "Zephyr," making Chester the industry leader in close headroom hoists. In 1995 Chester Hoist joined the Columbus McKinnon family.