From its beginnings in 1972 until now, Lou-Rich has prospered as a locally owned and employee-owned manufacturer.

In fact, employee ownership has played a major role in the success of the past 10 years, as the company has diversified and expanded its production of specialized industrial equipment into engineering and manufacturing services. They are proud of their history and the progress they have made.

&uot;We have an excellent workforce that is loyal, hardworking, and very talented. I am proud of the way our employees take charge, and are responsible for making the decisions that have led to our success,&uot; said Mike Larson, current president, CEO and son of one of the founders, Louis Larson.

In order to celebrate their success, Lou-Rich is holding an open house on Saturday, May 18, at its Albert Lea location on West Front Street. They’ll be providing refreshments and tours, and visitors will even be able to take part in some hands-on assembly, making their own souvenirs of the day.

Being locally owned has prompted Lou-Rich and its employees to support the communities in which it does business. According to Larson, they think it’s important to give all students an understanding of manufacturing in the 21st century. Consequently, the company works with public schools and technical colleges to provide tours, school-to-work programs, and internships.

The company has also taken up the challenge of investing in emerging technologies, with over $10 million in investments made to facilities and equipment over the past five years, said Steve Tufte, chief financial officer.

Lou-Rich currently is made up of five divisions: design, engineering and manufacturing facilities in Albert Lea, Hayward, and Brandon, S.D., and Panels Plus and Exact Manufacturing in Albert Lea. The company also has one subsidiary, KleenTec, located in Albert Lea.