AREL was founded by Michel Albert Huygen, born on 7 februari 1917 at Hoevenen, Belgium.

The factory was first located in the centre of Antwerp but soon had to relocate as it became too small.

After a fire the factory was moved to Schoten, where eventually 1800 people were employed at its peak.

Michel sold his factory around 1960 after the many complaints of the workers for more holidays and salary.

Their first wire recorder was the 171A2.

Their first taperecorder was probably the 362.01 which was built in 1968.

Then came the 362.02, also in 1968.

Their probably last model was the 433, which I have in my collection.