Our History: Building a Legacy of Innovation Since 1948
Nystrom was founded in 1948 by James C. Nystrom as an independent representative for a variety of building product manufacturers. Nystrom’s history has since been one of firsts in the industry, from our marketing approach to manufacturing, all focused on simplifying and streamlining processes to serve customers.
In 1989, Nystrom revolutionized access panel distribution, providing direct access for contractors and allowing them to get the right product, right to site. Nystrom was also an early adopter of the “Theory of Constraints” in manufacturing, doubling production while reducing inventory more than half and reducing manufacturing lead times.
Nystrom has since continued the product line growth through acquisition, strategic partnering, and internal research and development to become the dominant U.S. player in commercial specialty building products with ten distinct product lines and a strong and growing international presence.
Timeline and Major Milestones
1948
Founded by James C. Nystrom as an independent representative for a number of building products manufacturers.
1958
Began manufacturing metal casework for banks & school lockers.
1965
The first access door manufactured by Nystrom rolled off the production line.
1972
Became one of the first manufacturers to receive U.L. approval for its fire-rated wall access panel.
1985
James C. Nystrom passes away and his son, James T. Nystrom, takes over the business.
1989
Jim Nystrom moves the organization to a “factory direct” approach, revolutionizing the market.
1992
Adds roof hatches and smoke vents to its product line.
1993
Implements “Theory of Constraints,” doubling daily production and cutting lead time from six weeks to one day.
1994
Enters the floor hatch market with the first fire-rated floor door on the market.
1996
Acquires Cesco Products, entering the louver marketplace.
1997
Adds formal engineering capacity, markets exterior access panel, acquires Cierra.
1998
Acquires Cierra products and D&B X-Pansion Joints, later rebranded as Nystrom Expansion Joints.
2000
Acquires Airline Products brand, begins marketing louvers under that brand.
2002
Acquires the 90-year old roof hatch company, Babcock-Davis.
2008
Acquires Arden Architectural Specialties.
2010
Acquires Victory Treads Holdings, LLC, a full line of Stair Treads and Nosings.
2012
Sue Thomas is named CEO, focusing on enriching customer experience.
2013
Introduces the industry’s only UL Listed Photoluminescent Stair Nosings.
2014
Introduces the industry’s highest rated Acoustical Smoke Vents.
2015
Launches Fall Protection line with Rooftop and Weighted Base Guardrails.
2016
Launches redesigned Personnel Series Roof Hatch, SunLit eco Smoke Vent, expands Entrance Mats & Grilles.
2017
Introduces ThermalMAX™, the most energy-efficient roof hatch. Certified as Florida & Miami-Dade Approved manufacturer.
2018
Launches Luminous Egress products, meeting New York code requirements for photoluminescent safety standards.
2019
Introduces EcoTread™ Stair Nosings, the industry’s only sustainable safety tread.
