Andersen Windows: A Green Manufacturing Success Story

If anyone doubts that a small business can grow to international prominence

, he need only look to the Andersen Corporation. The growth of the company is a classic example of entrepreneurial success. In 1903, a Danish immigrant, Hans Andersen, founded the company as a lumberyard in Hudson, Wisconsin. A small town near Minneapolis, Hudson received logs on the St. Croix River.

Today, Andersen is the country's largest manufacturer of wood windows, patio doors and storm doors. Its sales top $1 billion annually and Andersen employs more than 10,000 employees in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Its subsidiaries include such respected brands as Eagle Windows, EMCO, and American Craftsman.

Andersen's growth was achieved partly by organic growth. Renewal by Andersen, for example, is a division that Andersen created in 1995. Further growth came from acquisitions. EMCO (EMCO Enterprises, Inc.) was acquired in 2001, Eagle Windows (Eagle Window & Door) in 2005, and Silver Lining (Silver Line Building Products LLC) in 2006.

Andersen is headquartered in Bayport, Minnesota. Its subsidiaries, however, are headquartered in other states: EMCO and Eagle Windows are in Iowa, Silver Line in New Jersey.

The conglomerate has an excellent record of green manufacturing. It's been named a 2010 Energy Star Partner of the Year. The Energy Star Program was established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1992. Its purpose is to encourage energy efficiency through green products and consumption practices.

Andersen's manufacturing policies limit greenhouse gas emissions and produce energy-efficient products. What's more, the company's commitment to consumer education has reinforced its position as a green company. Through Andersen's websites, media messages, and advertising campaigns, Andersen consistently disseminates Energy Star information.

Andersen has also participated in another of the EPA's programs--the National Environmental Achievement Track program--not just once but three times, proving that a company can be simultaneously successful and green.

by: QW HON

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