Founded in 1948 by James C. Nystrom, our company began as an independent representative for leading building product manufacturers. From the start, Nystrom has been dedicated to innovation, quality, and simplifying construction processes to better serve contractors, architects, and building owners.
Pioneering Access and Efficiency
In 1989, Nystrom revolutionized the access panel industry by introducing direct distribution to contractors, ensuring they could receive the right products directly to the job site.
Around this same time, Nystrom became an early adopter of the Theory of Constraints in manufacturing—doubling production, reducing inventory by more than half, and dramatically shortening lead times. This was a turning point that reinforced our commitment to continuous improvement and customer-first solutions.
Expanding Product Lines and Global Reach
Through strategic acquisitions, partnerships, and in-house research and development, Nystrom has grown into a leading U.S. manufacturer of specialty building products. Today, our portfolio includes eight distinct product categories that support commercial construction projects nationwide and internationally:
- Roof Hatches – safe, secure roof access solutions
- Smoke Vents – automatic smoke and heat release systems for fire safety
- Access Doors & Panels – versatile wall and ceiling access solutions
- Expansion Joints – systems for building movement, seismic safety, and durability
- Entrance Flooring Systems – grilles, gratings, and mats to stop dirt and moisture
- Floor Doors – reliable access to underground and utility spaces
- Roof Accessories – safety railings, ladders, and fall protection equipment
- Fire Safety – fire extinguisher cabinets, portable fire extinguishers, detention cabinets and fire blanket cabinets
Building a Lasting Legacy
Since 1948, Nystrom has been building a legacy of excellence in commercial building products. With a strong U.S. presence and an expanding international footprint, we remain committed to delivering specialty building solutions that make construction easier, safer, and more efficient—today and for generations to come.
Timeline and Major Milestones
1948
Founded by James C. Nystrom.
1957
March 12th Nystrom is incorporated.
1958
Began manufacturing metal casework for banks & school lockers.
1965
The first access door manufactured by Nystrom rolled off the production line.
1972
First manufacturer to receive U.L. approval for access panel.
1985
James C. Nystrom passes away and his son, James T. Nystrom, takes over the business.
1989
Moves to factory direct and revolutionizes the market selling direct to contractors.
1992
Nystrom adds roof hatches and smoke vents to its product line.
1993
Implements “Theory of Constraints,” and increases production from 250 to 500 daily units.
1994
Enters the floor hatch market with the first fire-rated floor door.
1996
Acquires Cesco Products, entering the louver market.
1998
Acquires the assets of D&B X-Pansion Joints, Inc.
2000
Company moves from Northeast Minneapolis to Brooklyn Park.
2002
Acquires Babcock-Davis, a roof hatch and smoke vent company.
2008
Acquires Arden Architectural Specialties.
2010
Acquires Victory Threads Holdings, a stair nosing company.
2012
Sue Thomas is named CEO, focused on enriching the customer experience.
2013
Introduces industry's only U.L.-Listed Photoluminescent Stair Nosings product line.
2013
Leases space in Brookyn Park for second manufacturing facility.
2014
Introduces the industry’s highest rated Acoustical Smoke Vents.
2015
Launches Fall Protection product line with Rooftop Guardrails.
2015
Introduces 80/20 lens to position company for profit and growth.
2016
Redesigns Personnel™ series Roof Hatch with Miami-Dade hurricane testing.
2016
Introduces SunLit™ Eco Smoke Vent.
2016
Consolidates stair nosing production in Mpls; closing Alabama plant.
2016
Sells Airline Louvers.
2016
Expands its Entrance Mats & Grilles product line.
2017
Introduces ThermalMAX™, the most energy-efficient Roof Hatch in the industry.
2017
Salvagnini machine installed.
2018
Launches Luminous Egress products.
2018
Hassle-Free Product & Expertise launched.
2019
Introduces EcoTread™ Stair Nosings, the industry's only sustainable tread.
2019
Introduces Salesforce CRM, improving customer visibility and steamlining sales operations.
2019
Expands campus with a second manufacturing and office building.
2019
Brooklyn Park Mayor Jeff Lunde proclaims December 10, 2019 to be Nystrom Day.
2020
Temporarily pauses production during the COVID‑19 pandemic to implement CDC safety protocols.
2021
Acquires Architectural Art Manufacturing's expansion joint line.
2021
Returns office staff under a hybrid work model.
2021
Launches Stair Nosing Guards™.
2022
Introduces customer-driven HVAC Access Door.
2022
Installs new laser technology.
2022
Offers stock sizes in Personnel Roof Hatch with Miami Dade approval.
2023
Celebrates 75 years in business.
2023
Forms Architectural Advisory Panel, strengthing service and product innvoation through direct insight from industry experts.
2023
AcousticMAX™ becomes the highest rated OITC and STC rated acoustical smoke vent.
2023
Implements Microsoft D365 platform, enhancing operational efficiency and unifying sata across the business.
2024
Debuts the ThermalMAX™ Smoke Vent, an energy‑efficient fire‑safety solution with R‑20+ insulation.
2024
Strengthens sales organization with direct hires and expanded joint‑sales network.
2025
Adds a Touch‑Latch option to three access door styles, providing simple one‑touch operation.
2025
Rolls out a “Hassle‑Free” customer survey to continuously elevate service.
2025
Designs and introduces Seismic Wing System expansion joint product for waterproofing applications.
2026
Discontinued Stair Treads & Nosings and Luminous Egress product lines.
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