Our History

In search of the American Dream, George Landers arrives in Connecticut at the age of sixteen. Working for Josiah Dewey’s manufacturing company, George slowly works his way to president, eventually taking over the company which leads to the birth of Landers, Frary & Clark.

From the beginning, the company manufactured and incorporated product lines to make life easier for the American housewife. A few of the products offered included food scales, coffee grinders, bread makers, tableware, coffee pots and percolators.

After George retired from active management and his son becomes the company’s secretary, The Universal name is adopted. The name is introduced to the public in 1890. Subsequently, Landers introduces a series of revolutionary household products, helping establish the company as a leader in the housewares field.

With the market taking well to the new Universal name, Landers is poised to take advantage of the brand awareness. In 1897 Landers registers the Universal Food Chopper Trademark in Commerce. This product became a necessity in North American kitchens since it not only grinds meat but also vegetables — a game-changer at the time.

The Universal Chopper begins to gain notoriety as the product receives The Silver Medal at Food & Cookery Exhibition, Imperial Institute, in London, England. This was one of many accolades to come for Landers.

As the world gets its hands on Landers products it becomes clear that they are on the right track. So notable, Queen Victoria’s chef sends a complimentary letter to Landers. Yet another accolade Landers adds to its growing company.

Landers reaches new heights when they attend the World’s Fair. Boasting the Universal brand name, their Bread Maker is a highly touted product. In fact, among a world of technological advancements, this bread maker took home a gold medal at the 1904 World’s Fair.

Landers popularity continues to soar, due to consistent development and advancements they make for their housewares products. In the 1920s an incredible 6 out of every 10 homes in North America have at least one Universal product.

As Landers North American market continues to grow, an opportunity begins to emerge. The market for Landers products was growing, especially in South America, which leads to the formation of Landers SA. The South American branch carries on the rich tradition of the original Landers.

In 1954 the first units of the Universal Pressure Cooker are produced and in 1957 the Traditional Grain Mill is entirely manufactured in Colombia. These two items are the most iconic products of the company and have given Landers its wide recognition nationally and internationally.

In 1960 Landers dramatically increased its production replacing the import of accessories with local manufacturing.

A dark cloud looms over Landers. Doubt about the future creeps into the company, ultimately resulting in a sale to General Electric in the late 60s.

In 1987 Landers was recognized by the National Quality Award Program as an award winner. This program is a rigorous three-level process that evaluates an organization’s capabilities against nationally recognized standards for excellence. Landers, taking great pride in their products and process was ecstatic to receive this honor.

In the late 90s Landers SA was developing a new product for launch. The new innovative Corona Pot was ready by 1996 to be released to the public. Yet another innovative design to add to their product line.

Through hours of research and development to create the best product possible, Landers achieves the Icontec Quality Seal. This seal allows organizations to demonstrate permanently that their products, processes, and services comply with effective manufacturing and control systems. This was a huge certification for Landers SA as they are able to promote their new quality seal.

Landers South America looking to continue their innovation and development acquired new machinery. This move was made to continue manufacturing their Pressure Cooker. The machinery was bought from an Italian Firm called Galdabini.

50 years of success for Landers South America. The company celebrates its accomplishments in the Colombian Market. With this landmark, Landers looks to continue processing forward.

As the leaders in the pressure cooker space, Landers South America Launches a new design for their External Closing pot Nova. With this launch, Landers is able to reaffirm its leadership in the market for pressure cookers.

Landers introduces a new logo that reflects the strategic direction and spirit of the company incorporating “The smile” as part of the brand

The American Dream was never lost even as the dark clouds were overhead. In 2019 Landers has reentered the US Market by way of Miami, Florida. Looking to re-establish themselves as a leading manufacturer in the North American Market. With this expansion, Landers set its sights on developing Landers to be a staple in American homes once again.

Landers celebrates 70 years in the market, offering a wide range of high-quality Houseware & Kitchenware products.