Our History
THE BRAUN STORY
Braun is a proudly family-owned American company with roots tracing back to the 1900s. Today, we are a global leader in manufacturing laundry equipment. As we expand our product offerings, we remain dedicated to advancing laundry technology for future generations.
1900s
In 1902, a family-operated chemical company moved from Ohio to Syracuse, New York. Dubbed the ‘Salt City’, it was a global hub for soda ash production, essential for soap manufacturing.
In 1915, they launched a new laundry and dry-cleaning machinery business called “the Prosperity Co.”
1940s
In 1946, G.A. Braun was founded as an offshoot of Prosperity. It started as a simple sales office for laundry equipment.
1950s
In 1956, G.A. Braun began manufacturing its own line of laundry machinery. The Unit Wash, the first Braun washer/extractor, was introduced.
With a focus on innovation, Braun added electromechanical controls and automatic chemical injection to its washers in the late 1950s.
1960s
In the 1960s, a breakthrough design marked the launch of suspension-mounted machines.
Braun pioneered the Pass-Thru Medicare machine, separating clean and dirty areas to prevent infections and airborne pathogens.
Braun introduced a top/side loading machine with doors optimized for gravity-assisted loading and unloading.
1970s
Through an acquisition in the 1970s, Braun added finishing equipment to its machinery lineup.
Braun pioneered the incorporation of microprocessor controls in its washer/extractors.
1980s
In the 1980s, Braun introduced WASHNET NT, the first computer-controlled laundry program.
In the late 1980s, Braun purchased the Norman Dryer line – marking the start of manufacturing all its own dryers.
1990s
Braun is the first laundry equipment company to develop control software running on a Microsoft® Windows System.
Braun introduces several additional new products including the PT (pass-thru) series dryer line.
2000s
Braun introduces the narrowest open pocket washer/extractors on the market, offering increased washing capacity with less floor space.
Braun introduced its Certified Remanufactured Program – reviving machines after 20+ years of service, rebuilt to current specifications with a new equipment warranty.
In 2015, GA Braun expands, adding 155,000 square feet to its manufacturing facility.
Braun made renewed commitment to research and development, leading to 22 new or enhanced products released to the market, resulting in 4 new patent pending market solutions.
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