Lamppa Manufacturing recognized as the top family-owned small business by Duluth News Tribune

Lamppa Manufacturing, a family-owned business in Tower, Minnesota, has a rich history spanning four generations. What started as a small side hustle for CEO Garrett Lamppa’s great-grandfather, Richard Lamppa, has now grown into a global enterprise. Recently recognized as the Minnesota Family-Owned Small Business of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Lamppa Manufacturing specializes in producing Kuuma wood-burning furnaces and sauna stoves.

The company’s success has led to expansion, with a move to a larger facility and an increase in workforce to meet growing demand. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Lamppa Manufacturing saw a surge in production, selling hundreds of sauna stoves and furnaces. The company’s commitment to quality jobs and benefits has made it a vital part of the Tower community’s economy.

The legacy of innovation and perseverance runs deep in the Lamppa family. From Richard’s early days as a blacksmith during the Great Depression to Herbert and Daryl’s advancements in stove design, each generation has contributed to the company’s success. Today, Garrett continues the family tradition as CEO, with his children occasionally visiting the shop.

Looking ahead, Lamppa Manufacturing is poised for further growth in the sauna industry. With new products in development and a strong foundation built over decades, the company is well-positioned for success in the coming years. The story of Lamppa Manufacturing is not just one of business success, but also a testament to the enduring spirit of family and community in Tower, Minnesota.