Celebrating 50 Years of Funtrail
The History of Funtrail
In 2026, Funtrail proudly celebrates 50 years of serving Central Ohio and beyond. What began as a small automotive customization business in the mid-1970s has grown into one of the region’s most trusted providers of vehicle accessories, truck equipment, fleet upfitting, and commercial vehicle solutions.
For five decades, our success has been built on a simple philosophy: provide quality products, expert installation, and exceptional customer service. Today, our team brings together well over a century of combined industry experience, helping customers find the right solutions for work, recreation, and everything in between.
The Early Years: Van Customization and the Conversion Era
Funtrail opened its doors in 1976 during the height of America’s custom van movement. In those early years, we became known for transforming ordinary vans into personalized vehicles featuring specialty windows, custom seating, plush interiors, entertainment systems, and unique styling that reflected each owner’s personality.
As the conversion van market expanded throughout the 1980s, Funtrail evolved alongside it. Larger vans, premium interiors, upgraded electronics, and luxury features became increasingly popular, and our team continued to lead the way with innovative customization options and professional installations.
Adapting to the SUV and Truck Boom
The 1990s brought another major shift in the automotive landscape as SUVs and pickup trucks surged in popularity. Once again, Funtrail adapted to meet changing customer demands.
We expanded our offerings to include truck caps, running boards, nerf bars, tonneau covers, hitches, ladder racks, bug shields, rain guards, sliding rear windows, and countless other accessories. During this time, Funtrail became an authorized A.R.E. dealer, aligning ourselves with one of the most respected names in the truck cap industry.
Our reputation for quality products and expert installation helped establish Funtrail as a destination for truck and SUV owners throughout Central Ohio.
Building the Commercial Division
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Funtrail recognized another growing opportunity: helping businesses maximize the productivity and efficiency of their vehicles.
What started with commercial truck caps and basic van shelving systems quickly evolved into a full-service commercial upfitting division. Today, Funtrail partners with contractors, municipalities, utility companies, delivery fleets, service organizations, and businesses of all sizes to create customized work vehicles designed to improve organization, safety, and productivity.
Our commercial solutions now include:
- Work truck and van upfitting
- Commercial shelving and storage systems
- Ladder racks and cargo management
- Service bodies and utility equipment
- Truck caps and commercial toppers
- Lighting and safety solutions
- Fleet customization and installation services
Over the years, we have had the privilege of working with many of Central Ohio’s leading organizations, helping them keep their vehicles on the road and their teams working efficiently.
Looking Ahead to the Next 50 Years
While much has changed since 1976, our commitment to our customers remains the same. Funtrail’s ability to anticipate industry trends, embrace new technologies, and adapt to changing customer needs has been the foundation of our success for the past five decades.
As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we are grateful for the generations of customers, employees, partners, and businesses who have trusted Funtrail along the way. Whether you’re looking for accessories for your personal vehicle, solutions for your work truck, or a complete fleet upfitting partner, we’re honored to continue serving Central Ohio and surrounding communities.
Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to the next 50 years of Funtrail.
