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.

    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 Zeeland.

    1985

    Quattro construction for washers is developed.

    1990

    New cooker factory and central warehouse in Lahti.

    2000

    Antonio Merloni acquire Asko Appliances.

    2006

    ASKO becomes the first brand with a design-coordinated laundry care concept on the market.

    2009

    ASKO launches in Sweden.

    2014

    Asko Appliances AB move headoffice to Lidköping, Sweden.

    2015

    The Elements design-coordinated cooking range is launched.

    2016

    The Craft design-coordinated cooking range is launched.

    2017

    Launch of the Pro Home Laundry range.

    2017

    The ASKO Pro Home Laundry concept is awarded the Red Dot Best of the Best prize.