History

ASKO's story started in 1950, and was inspired by one young man's love for his mother. It was his dream to build her a washing machine that would not only make her life easier, but also give her more time to do the things she really cared about.

We're inspired by Scandinavian values: healthy living, fairness, care for people, functional and minimalistic design, dedicated craftsmanship and environmental responsibility. We want to reflect the values of care, honesty, reliability and respect and combine them with a feeling for quality and respect for the environment.

We are driven by the passion to create products that can become a much-loved part of your home, that are a joy to use, that take great care of you and your family, and that can provide you with the inspiration, the opportunity and the time to do the things you really enjoy.

Our timeline

1918

Finnish carpenter Aukusti Asko-Avonius founded the ASKO furniture group.

1938

UPO metal production was founded, producing for instance baby carriages and steel piping beds.

1950

The first washing machine is produced by Karl-Erik Andersson in Vara, Sweden, Junga Verkstäder is established.

1952

First Finnish household appliance – a refrigerator – is produced in Lahti.

1953

First washer is produced in Lahti.

1957

First cooker is produced in Lahti.

1967

First dishwasher is produced and export starts from Vara.

1972

First built in ovens are produced in Lahti.

1975

First tumble dryer is produced in Vara.

1978

Asea acquire Junga Verkstäder, change of name to Asea Cylinda.

1980

Own sales organizations established in Norway, Denmark, USA, Australia and New Zealand.

1985

The washing machines as we know today are introduced with the innovative Quattro Construction™ and Steel Seal™ platforms having four shock absorbers and a direct connecting door, and no springs.

1990