ABOUT US
OUR STORY
Accessories for equipping and customizing Willys Jeep, F1000, D20, C10 and Veraneio models, handcrafted in the Mantovani family garage in Caxias do Sul. That’s how it all began in the 80s. But soon the dream of founder Henry Mantovani, in partnership with his sons Leandro and Juliano, took shape and was recognized by customers until it hit the streets of Brazil and the world.
A pioneer in bringing the concept of automotive customization for pickups and light vehicles to the Brazilian market, the brand is now present in more than 40 countries on five continents and the company has achieved recognition and leadership in the segment for the innovation, quality and authenticity of the accessories it produces. From the family garage, Keko has crossed borders and conquered the world, positioning itself among the main players in the Brazilian and global automotive market.
TIMELINE
1986
FOUNDATION
Incopema is born, producing handcrafted and pioneering in Brazil accessories for pickups and off-road vehicles. The creation of the step-in holder leverages the production and gives impulse to the family business started in the garage. One year later, the company changes its name to Keko and in 1989, with the increase in production, it moves to a 250 m² pavilion.
1990
GROWING
Production on an industrial scale and expansion to a 750 m² pavilion begin. The formation of a network of representatives begins and the brand gains expressiveness in sports and off-road events. With the brand’s exposure, investments are made in new equipment, the logo is modernized, and the company moves to a 1.2 thousand m² facility.
1995
INOVATION
The company relocates to a 3.8 thousand m² area and makes its debut at Automec, the largest national trade fair in the industry. It establishes the CDI – Center for Development and Innovation, solidifying Keko’s creative essence. Two years later, it pioneers removable accessories, introducing innovation to the segment and expanding its product range. This breakthrough streamlines logistics and initiates the company’s entry into the export market.
2000
QUALITY
The company obtains ISO 9001/1994 certification, secures international partnerships for product distribution in Brazil, expands its manufacturing area to 10,000 m², acquires advanced technologies including variable radius tube benders, introduces rounded accessories for vehicles, supplies automakers, upgrades the brand with “Passion for Adventure,” wins the PGQP Bronze trophy, and expands focus to light vehicles and minivans with its first experience in aluminum.
2005
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The company acquires injection molding machines, expands product offerings, joins CRP fund, becomes a private limited company, implements corporate governance, acquires a hood factory, and adopts “Your car. Your personality” positioning.
2010
INDUSTRIAL PARK
The company opens a modern manufacturing park in Flores da Cunha/RS, expands to Camaçari/BA with a mod center for vehicle-color customization, achieves ISO/TS 16946 certification for automaker supply, and receives the Best Companies to Work For award in Rio Grande do Sul.
2015
OFFICIAL PROVIDER
Implementation of KPS – Keko Production System, fostering improvement, teamwork, waste reduction, and alignment with company results. Achievement of BIQS, a quality-focused manufacturing system essential for supplying General Motors. Approved supplier to twelve global automakers, present in over 40 countries across five continents.