Rich in history, our strength lies in our innovation and concern for our customers.
As a family-owned business, Elkay has a history of manufacturing innovative products and delivering excellent customer service. From our simple beginnings on Chicago’s north side to our present position as a supplier of complete kitchen products, we have always remained focused on key objectives--designing our products and adapting our businesses to serve the changing needs of our customers.
Please take a few moments to journey back with us to our beginnings and see how we have grown from a three person shop to an international company with over 3,800 employees!
1940-1949:
The challenges of World War II bring the opportunity for Elkay to participate in our country's war effort. In 1942, Elkay begins providing the armed forces with scullery and plumbing fixtures. We deliver over 23,000 sinks in less than 2 years. In 1945, we celebrate 25 years in business and in 1946 our post-war focus shifts to a booming residential market. In 1948, Elkay begins to die draw stainless steel bowls. This innovation cuts production costs in half and we soon become the nation's largest manufacturer of stainless steel residential sinks, a position we still maintain today.
