Employees turned out in droves for the 85th anniversary Family Day of Empire Comfort Systems (Belleville, Illinois) on August 26. This was no surprise, as employee loyalty has played a critical role in the success and longevity of the family-owned hearth company. Roughly 500 employees and their families attended the event, which included games, raffles, an obstacle course, a corn-on-thecob cook-off (using Broilmaster®grills), kid-sized hamster balls, live music, and food. An open house allowed employees to show their families their job locations and tasks; raw materials at the beginning of the production line became finished products at the end.

Empire was founded (in 1911, by Henry Bauer) as a small sheet-metal shop and was formally incorporated on August 25, 1932, as Empire Stove Company. In 2002, the company purchased manufacturing rights for Broilmaster grills. This addition helped keep employees working during the offpeak season for heaters and fireplaces, and it gave the sales force an added tool for calling on customers. Empire is owned by third-generation family members Brian and Pamela Bauer; their daughter, Jane; and their son, Nick (president). There’s already talk about Jane’s son eventually becoming the fifth-generation owner.

Nick was humbled by the turnout for Family Day. “Although I’m the president, I’ve only been here for 10 years, so it was very touching to look around and see so many employees who have worked for us for over 10 years—and one who has spent 57 years with us,” he says. “Empire wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for all our dedicated employees over the years. We are extremely grateful for all their hard work and support.” Empire employees have recorded 4,016 total years of service since the company’s inception.