Whirlpool’s Ohio operations make products that enhance everyday lives
By Terry Troy
It’s a company that a lot of people don’t talk about, but its products touch our hands almost every day. And for the 15th year in a row, it’s also been named one of the “World’s Most Admired Companies” by Fortune.
It may be headquartered in Benton Harbor, Michigan, but Whirlpool is a worldwide corporation that makes many of its most recognizable household brands right here in Ohio. Brands manufactured here include Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Amana, Maytag, Gladiator and JennAir.
“We have more than 7,000 Whirlpool Corporations employees in Ohio,” says Chad Parks, director of External Communications for Whirlpool Corporation. “North America is far and away our largest region of business, accounting for close to 90% of the company’s annual sales. Half of our manufacturing sites in the U.S. are located in Ohio, in many cases being one of the largest employers in the county where they are situated.”
Ohio-based manufacturing operations are based in Clyde, considered the world’s largest washing machine factory; Marion, where they manufacture clothes dryers; Findlay, home of dishwashers; and Ottawa, where they make refrigerators, including the first doors using SlimTech insulation technology as well as chest freezers and garbage compactors.
“And of course, our KitchenAid stand mixer has been manufactured in Greenville since 1942, which is our longest running plant,” Parks says.
“This year, we will be ramping up production of built-in refrigerators and refrigerator columns at our Ottawa operations, following more than $60 million in capital investment,” adds Parks. “Whirlpool Corporation is proud to have been founded in the U.S. in 1911 and we have never left; instead, we continue to invest in our critical manufacturing operations in the U.S., which are vital to our success.”
The company also credits much of its success to the business-friendly environment in Ohio, as well as the strong work ethic of its Ohio-based employees.
“Our workforce in Ohio is first-rate. They work day in and day out to make sure consumers have the home appliances they need to cook, clean and take care of their families,” says Parks. “We also have a strong working relationship with local, county and state officials in Ohio. We often host Ohio elected officials for tours of our facilities. We are proud to be the last-remaining major U.S.-based manufacturer of kitchen and laundry appliances.”
For the 15th year in a row, Whirlpool Corporation also has been named one of the “World’s Most Admired Companies” by Fortune. It was once again selected for this honor due to the company’s performance, management, products and commitment to the communities around the world where the company does business.
“It is an honor to be recognized by Fortune as one of the most admired companies,” says Marc Bitzer, chairman and CEO of Whirlpool Corporation. “This recognition is the result of incredible employees around the world and their tireless commitment to improving life at home for consumers.”