A Whirlpool veteran to his core, John Platts joined the company as an assembly line worker in 1941. Advancing quickly through the ranks, he oversaw major improvements in the company’s […]
In the 1960s, consumer needs were shifting. It was no longer enough for a manufacturer to just provide appliances. Access to information, advice and counsel was paramount. In 1967, Whirlpool […]
If Lou Upton was the fearless founder-innovator, Elisha “Bud” Gray was his ideal successor. Gray arrived from Sears when he was only 32. During a period of global political tension, […]
Midwestern sensibilities about hometown citizenship and community responsibility permeated Whirlpool Corp.’s culture as the business grew. In 1951, the company formalized those efforts by creating the Whirlpool Foundation. Now Whirlpool […]
Benton Harbor, Michigan, the home of Lou’s uncle Emory, was the logical place for Upton Machine Co.’s headquarters. Today, Whirlpool continues to honor its deep roots in Benton Harbor and […]
Lou’s brother Fred and uncle Emory were a vital part of Whirlpool Corp.’s journey to success. Fred was one of the company’s first employees, delivering and repairing washers and forging […]