History

    The ASKO story has its origins in 1950's Sweden, with an innovative young man's dream to build a Washing Machine for his mother. His core reasoning, to make her life simpler and easier. 

    Today, more than 70 years later, ASKO is a Swedish brand that is inspired by all the typical Scandinavian values. Functional, minimalistic design, with a focus on environmental responsibility and creating products out of the highest quality materials we can source. As Scandinavians, we are an ambitious, honest people. We create high quality products without needing to scream about it. 

    User-centric design has always been a key part of our philosphy. From the "Left to Right" functionality of our Laundry line, to the Meat Temperature Probe in our Ovens, which cooks your meal to your desired temeperature, and switches off the oven immediately when complete. 

    Everything we do, is in homage to Karl-Erik Andersson, who helped to launch the ASKO story more than 70 years ago. 

    Important ASKO years

    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.

    1958

    First cold iron 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 Zeeland.

    1988

    ASKO acquire ABB Cylinda, change of name to ASKO Appliances.

    1990

    New cooker factory and central warehouse in Lahti.

    2000

    Antonio Merloni acquire Asko Appliances.

    2006

    ASKO launches co-designed Kitchen and Laundry care concepts.

    2009

    ASKO launches in Sweden.

    2010

    New owner of Asko Appliances: Gorenje Group, Slovenia.

    2014

    Asko Appliances AB move headoffice to Lidköping, Sweden.

    2015

    ASKO launches Elements kitchen series

    2016

    ASKO launches Craft kitchen series

    2017

    ASKo launches Pro Home Laundry series

    2017

    ASKO Pro Home Laundry series receives the Red Dot - Best of the best award