When it comes to high-end kitchen appliances, two names often come to mind: Viking and Whirlpool. While both brands are well-established in the industry, there’s a common misconception that Viking is owned by Whirlpool. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of both companies, their respective values, and the truth behind their relationship.
A Brief History of Viking Range Corporation
Viking Range Corporation was founded in 1980 by Fred Carl Jr. in Greenwood, Mississippi. Carl, an entrepreneur and avid cook, was dissatisfied with the quality of cooking appliances available at the time. He set out to create a range that would combine commercial-grade performance with elegant design, sparking the birth of Viking Range Corporation.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Viking Range Corporation experienced rapid growth, quickly becoming a leader in the high-end appliance market. The company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction earned it a loyal customer base among professional chefs and home cooks alike.
Whirlpool Corporation: A Legacy of Innovation
Whirlpool Corporation, on the other hand, has a rich history dating back to 1911. Founded by Louis Upton, the company started as the Upton Machine Company in St. Joseph, Michigan. Initially, the company produced electric washing machines, but it wasn’t until the 1930s that Whirlpool began to expand its product line to include refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers.
Throughout the years, Whirlpool Corporation has continued to innovate and acquire other brands, solidifying its position as a global leader in the appliance industry. Today, Whirlpool Corporation is one of the largest home appliance manufacturers in the world, with a portfolio of brands that includes Maytag, KitchenAid, and Jenn-Air, among others.
The Misconception: Is Viking Owned by Whirlpool?
So, is Viking owned by Whirlpool? The short answer is no. Viking Range Corporation has always maintained its independence, despite facing financial difficulties in the mid-2000s. In 2013, the company filed for bankruptcy and underwent a major restructuring process.
In 2015, Viking Range Corporation was acquired by The Middleby Corporation, a leading global manufacturer of commercial and residential cooking equipment. Middleby’s acquisition of Viking Range Corporation was seen as a strategic move to expand its presence in the high-end residential market.
What This Means for Consumers
So, what does this mean for consumers? For one, it means that Viking appliances continue to be designed and manufactured with the same level of quality and dedication to innovation that the brand has always been known for.
Additionally, with Middleby’s backing, Viking Range Corporation has been able to invest in new product development, expand its distribution network, and enhance its customer service offerings. This has resulted in a wider range of products and services available to consumers, including premium cooking ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers, and ventilation systems.
Key Differences Between Viking and Whirlpool
While both Viking and Whirlpool are well-established appliance manufacturers, there are some key differences between the two brands. Here are a few:
- Quality Focus: Viking Range Corporation has always been focused on producing high-end, commercial-grade appliances for the residential market. Whirlpool Corporation, on the other hand, offers a broader range of appliances across various price points.
- Design and Innovation: Viking appliances are known for their sleek, industrial design and innovative features, such as their patented TurboChef technology. Whirlpool appliances, while also designed with style and functionality in mind, tend to focus on more practical features like smart integration and energy efficiency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Viking Range Corporation is not owned by Whirlpool Corporation. While both brands are prominent players in the appliance industry, they maintain distinct differences in terms of their focus, design, and values.
Viking Range Corporation’s commitment to producing high-end, commercial-grade appliances has earned it a loyal following among professional chefs and home cooks. With Middleby’s backing, the company continues to innovate and expand its offerings, solidifying its position as a leader in the high-end appliance market.
Whirlpool Corporation, on the other hand, has built a reputation as a global leader in the appliance industry, with a broad portfolio of brands and products that cater to a wide range of consumers.
Ultimately, the choice between Viking and Whirlpool appliances depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, understanding the differences between these two brands can help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right appliances for your kitchen.
Is Viking a subsidiary of Whirlpool?
Viking Range Corporation is not a subsidiary of Whirlpool Corporation. While both companies are well-known in the appliance industry, they operate independently of each other. Viking is a leading manufacturer of high-end residential cooking ranges, cooktops, and kitchen appliances, whereas Whirlpool is a multinational manufacturer of home appliances.
Although Viking is not owned by Whirlpool, both companies have been in the appliance industry for decades and have built strong reputations for producing high-quality products. Viking is particularly recognized for its professional-grade ranges and cooktops, which are highly sought after by home cooks and professional chefs alike.
What is the history of Viking Range Corporation?
Viking Range Corporation was founded in 1987 by Fred Carl, Jr. in Greenwood, Mississippi. The company started by producing high-end commercial-grade cooking ranges for the residential market. Over the years, Viking expanded its product line to include cooktops, ovens, and other kitchen appliances. Today, Viking is a leading manufacturer of premium cooking appliances, known for their durability, performance, and sleek design.
Viking’s commitment to innovation and quality has earned the company numerous awards and recognition in the industry. The company remains committed to its founding principles of providing high-performance cooking solutions that meet the needs of home cooks and professional chefs.
What is the difference between Viking and Whirlpool appliances?
Viking and Whirlpool are two distinct brands with different focuses and target markets. Viking is a premium appliance brand that specializes in high-end cooking ranges, cooktops, and kitchen appliances. Whirlpool, on the other hand, is a mass-market appliance brand that offers a wide range of home appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers.
The main difference between Viking and Whirlpool appliances lies in their features, quality, and price. Viking appliances are designed for serious home cooks and professional chefs, offering advanced features, heavy-duty construction, and a high-end finish. Whirlpool appliances, while reliable and affordable, are more geared towards the average consumer and may not offer the same level of sophistication as Viking appliances.
Can I use Viking appliances in my outdoor kitchen?
Yes, Viking appliances can be used in outdoor kitchens. In fact, Viking offers a range of outdoor cooking products, including grills, cooktops, and outdoor ventilation systems. These products are specifically designed to withstand the elements and provide high-performance cooking in outdoor settings.
Viking’s outdoor appliances are built with durability and weather resistance in mind, featuring stainless steel construction, waterproof ignition systems, and other advanced features. Whether you’re building a backyard kitchen or an outdoor entertainment area, Viking appliances can help you create an exceptional outdoor cooking experience.
Are Viking appliances Energy Star certified?
Many Viking appliances are Energy Star certified, which means they meet the energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Energy Star certification indicates that a product has met strict energy efficiency guidelines, which can help homeowners reduce their energy consumption and lower their utility bills.
Viking’s commitment to energy efficiency is evident in its products, which are designed to provide high-performance cooking while minimizing energy consumption. By choosing Energy Star certified Viking appliances, homeowners can enjoy significant energy savings while still experiencing the exceptional cooking performance that Viking is known for.
Can I purchase Viking appliances online?
Viking appliances can be purchased through various online retailers, as well as through authorized Viking dealers and distributors. Online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Home Depot often carry a selection of Viking appliances, including ranges, cooktops, and refrigerators.
However, it’s essential to ensure that you’re buying from an authorized Viking dealer or distributor to avoid purchasing counterfeit or refurbished products. Viking’s official website also provides a “Find a Dealer” tool, which can help you locate a nearby authorized dealer or distributor.
What is the warranty on Viking appliances?
Viking appliances come with a comprehensive warranty program that covers parts and labor for a specified period. The warranty period varies depending on the product and model, but most Viking appliances come with a minimum 2-year limited warranty.
In addition to the standard warranty, Viking also offers an optional extended warranty program, which can provide extended coverage for up to 5 years. This program offers added peace of mind and protection against unexpected repair costs. Viking’s warranty program is designed to provide homeowners with confidence and assurance in their appliance purchases.