PEWAUKEE, Wis. - The Gustave A. Larson Co. celebrated its 70th anniversary this July. Founded by Gus Larson in 1936, the company has been family owned and operated for 70 years and is presently under the leadership of Gus' grandsons; Andrew Larson, president and CEO, and Scott Larson, executive vice president and COO.

Larson began as a small storefront in Madison, Wis., with just two employees. Seventy years later, it has 44 locations in 14 states with almost 400 employees. Each branch carries an extensive inventory of equipment and replacement parts to serve customers' needs. The Larson Co. maintains a $55 million inventory and an in-house truck fleet that replenishes branches nightly.

In the April 24, 1940, issue of The NEWS, the success of the Larson Co. was attributed to members of an organization who were "committed to technical competence, responsive to customer's needs, friendly, willing to work hard, active in the industry, and active in the community."

"We don't sell anything – our customers do. As a result, our focus is on helping them maximize their success," said Andrew. "This is the philosophy of the Larson Company and it is this philosophy that will carry it forward for another 70 years."

Publication date: 08/28/2006