Tappan is a brand that has been around for over a century, known for its reliable and durable appliances. However, the question of who actually makes Tappan can be a bit confusing. In this article, we will delve into the history of the brand and the companies that have been involved in its production.
Table of Contents
The Beginnings of Tappan
Tappan was originally founded in 1881 by W.J. Tappan in Mansfield, Ohio. The company started out as a producer of cast-iron stoves and quickly expanded its product line to include gas ranges, refrigerators, and other home appliances.
Tappan grew rapidly throughout the early 20th century and became a major player in the appliance industry. In 1950, the company introduced its first microwave oven, which was a huge success and helped to cement Tappan’s reputation as an innovator in the field.
Tappan’s Acquisition by Electrolux
Despite its success, Tappan was not immune to the changes and consolidation that swept through the appliance industry in the 1980s and 1990s. In 1979, Tappan was acquired by White Consolidated Industries, which was itself acquired by the Swedish appliance giant Electrolux in 1986.
Under Electrolux’s ownership, Tappan continued to manufacture appliances under its own name, as well as under other Electrolux-owned brands such as Frigidaire and Kelvinator.
Tappan Today
Today, Tappan appliances are still manufactured by Electrolux, although the brand has been largely phased out in favor of the other brands in Electrolux’s portfolio. However, Tappan products can still be found in some markets and are known for their quality and durability.
While Tappan may not be as prominent as it once was, its legacy lives on in the appliances it produced and the innovations it brought to the industry.
The Companies Behind Tappan
As we’ve seen, Tappan has been owned by a number of different companies throughout its history. Here’s a brief rundown of the companies that have been involved in Tappan’s production:
W.J. Tappan Company
The original founder of Tappan, W.J. Tappan, ran the company until his retirement in 1927. The company was then taken over by his son, J.B. Tappan, who continued to lead Tappan until the company was sold in 1950.
White Consolidated Industries
White Consolidated Industries was a major player in the appliance industry in the 1970s and 1980s. The company acquired Tappan in 1979 and continued to produce appliances under the Tappan name until it was acquired by Electrolux in 1986.
Electrolux
Electrolux is a Swedish company that is one of the largest appliance manufacturers in the world. The company acquired Tappan as part of its acquisition of White Consolidated Industries in 1986. Today, Tappan appliances are still manufactured by Electrolux, although the brand has been largely phased out in favor of other Electrolux-owned brands.
Tappan’s Most Popular Products
Over the years, Tappan has produced a wide variety of appliances, ranging from stoves and refrigerators to microwaves and air conditioners. Here are some of the brand’s most popular products:
Tappan Gas Range
Tappan’s gas ranges were some of its most popular products, known for their durability and reliability. These ranges featured a classic design and were available in a wide range of colors and styles.
Tappan Microwave Oven
Tappan’s microwave ovens were some of the first in the industry and helped to popularize this new technology. The company’s microwaves were known for their quality and longevity.
Tappan Refrigerator
Tappan’s refrigerators were also popular, featuring a classic design and a range of features such as adjustable shelves and temperature controls.
Conclusion
Tappan may not be as well-known as it once was, but its legacy lives on in the appliances it produced and the innovations it brought to the industry. Today, Tappan appliances are still manufactured by Electrolux and are known for their quality and durability.
FAQs
Q: Are Tappan appliances still being produced today?
A: Yes, Tappan appliances are still being produced by Electrolux, although the brand has been largely phased out in favor of other Electrolux-owned brands.
Q: Where can I find Tappan appliances for sale?
A: Tappan appliances can be found at select retailers and online marketplaces.
Q: What was Tappan’s most popular product?
A: Tappan’s gas ranges were some of its most popular products, known for their durability and reliability.
Q: Who owns Tappan today?
A: Tappan is owned by Electrolux, a Swedish appliance manufacturer.
Q: When was Tappan founded?
A: Tappan was originally founded in 1881 by W.J. Tappan in Mansfield, Ohio.