When it comes to high-end appliances, few brands are as synonymous with luxury and quality as Sub-Zero. For over 70 years, Sub-Zero has been the go-to choice for homeowners and chefs alike who demand the best in refrigeration and freezer technology. But have you ever wondered who makes Sub-Zero refrigerators? The answer may surprise you. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Sub-Zero, its parent company, and the people behind the brand’s iconic refrigerators.
History of Sub-Zero
Sub-Zero was founded in 1945 by Westye F. Bakke, a visionary entrepreneur who had a passion for innovation and a commitment to quality. Bakke’s journey began in the 1930s, when he worked as a refrigeration technician, repairing and maintaining refrigerators for local restaurants and homes. During World War II, Bakke served in the US Navy, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience in refrigeration technology.
The First Sub-Zero Refrigerator
In 1945, Bakke returned to his hometown of Madison, Wisconsin, and founded Sub-Zero, Inc. The company’s first product was a refrigeration unit designed specifically for the food service industry. The unit was a game-changer, offering superior temperature control and humidity management that helped to preserve food quality and extend shelf life.
Parent Company: Wolf
In 2000, Sub-Zero was acquired by Wolf, a leading manufacturer of high-end cooking appliances. Wolf, founded in 1936, is known for its premium cooking products, including ranges, cooktops, and ovens. The acquisition marked a significant milestone for both companies, as it allowed them to leverage each other’s strengths and expertise to create a comprehensive range of high-end appliances.
Shared Values and Commitment to Quality
Both Sub-Zero and Wolf share a commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The companies’ shared values are reflected in their products, which are designed to provide exceptional performance, durability, and style. By combining their resources and expertise, Sub-Zero and Wolf have created a portfolio of products that cater to the needs of discerning homeowners and professional chefs alike.
Manufacturing Process
So, where are Sub-Zero refrigerators manufactured? The answer is a bit more complex than you might expect. While Sub-Zero is headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, the company’s manufacturing facilities are located in various parts of the world, including the United States, Italy, and China.
US Manufacturing Facilities
Sub-Zero has two manufacturing facilities in the United States: one in Madison, Wisconsin, and another in Apple Valley, California. The Madison facility is responsible for producing the company’s iconic refrigeration units, while the Apple Valley facility focuses on manufacturing cooking appliances.
Italian Manufacturing Facility
In 2015, Sub-Zero opened a manufacturing facility in Italy, which specializes in producing high-end cooking appliances, including ranges, cooktops, and ovens. The facility is strategically located near the company’s European headquarters in Milan, allowing for easier distribution and logistics to customers across the region.
Chinese Manufacturing Facility
In 2018, Sub-Zero opened a manufacturing facility in China, which focuses on producing refrigeration units and other appliances for the Asian market. The facility is designed to meet the specific needs of Chinese consumers, who are increasingly demanding high-quality appliances that meet their unique needs and preferences.
Quality Control and Testing
At Sub-Zero, quality control is a top priority. The company’s manufacturing facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art testing equipment and rigorous quality control procedures to ensure that every product meets the company’s high standards.
Testing and Validation
Before a product is released to the market, it undergoes a comprehensive testing and validation process. This includes testing for performance, durability, and reliability, as well as validation of the product’s design, materials, and manufacturing processes.
Quality Control Procedures
Sub-Zero’s quality control procedures are designed to ensure that every product meets the company’s high standards. These procedures include:
- Visual inspections
- Functional testing
- Vibration testing
- Temperature testing
- Humidity testing
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sub-Zero refrigerators are made by a team of skilled professionals at the company’s manufacturing facilities around the world. From its humble beginnings in Madison, Wisconsin, to its current status as a global leader in high-end appliances, Sub-Zero has remained committed to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a homeowner or a professional chef, Sub-Zero refrigerators are the perfect choice for anyone who demands the best in refrigeration technology.
FAQs
Q: Who founded Sub-Zero?
Sub-Zero was founded in 1945 by Westye F. Bakke, a visionary entrepreneur who had a passion for innovation and a commitment to quality.
Q: Who acquired Sub-Zero?
In 2000, Sub-Zero was acquired by Wolf, a leading manufacturer of high-end cooking appliances.
Q: Where are Sub-Zero refrigerators manufactured?
Sub-Zero refrigerators are manufactured at the company’s facilities in the United States, Italy, and China.
Q: What is the testing and validation process for Sub-Zero products?
Before a product is released to the market, it undergoes a comprehensive testing and validation process, which includes testing for performance, durability, and reliability, as well as validation of the product’s design, materials, and manufacturing processes.
Q: What is the quality control process for Sub-Zero products?
Sub-Zero’s quality control procedures include visual inspections, functional testing, vibration testing, temperature testing, and humidity testing, among others, to ensure that every product meets the company’s high standards.