"Sparks Will Fly" With the Production of Zippo's 500 Millionth Lighter

BRADFORD, Pa., March 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Zippo is quickly approaching the production of its 500 Millionth lighter, a significant manufacturing milestone set to take place this spring at the company's manufacturing plant in Bradford, Pennsylvania. The manufacture of the 500 Millionth lighter is anticipated between mid-May and mid-June during Zippo's 80th Anniversary year. The specific date of manufacture will be pinpointed and released when available, based on plant capacity and production schedules.  

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120327/NY77452 )

The actual 500 Millionth lighter will be classic brushed chrome with two-tone engraving. This one-of-a kind model will feature a distinctive bottom stamp indicating the date and time of production, as well as an individual serialization of number "1." It will be placed on permanent display in the company's museum near the plant.

"As we draw closer to the creation of the historic 500 Millionth Zippo lighter, we want to recognize the dedication and support of our employees and consumers, and the quality and appeal of the product we have been producing for 80 years," said Greg Booth, Zippo President and CEO. "We look forward to celebrating this milestone and our 80th Anniversary year with our dedicated employees, the people of Bradford, and Zippo enthusiasts around the world."

To honor this achievement, Zippo will dedicate nearly all production on the day of the 500 Millionth celebration to the manufacture of two highly collectible commemorative lighters: a 500 Millionth replica and a deluxe limited edition model. Both will be offered worldwide in the Zippo Choice 2012/2013 Catalog.

Zippo was founded in the fall of 1932 by George G. Blaisdell in Bradford and maintains its sole manufacturing operation in the northwestern Pennsylvania town. With the exception of improvements to the flint wheel and modifications in case finishes, the product remains unchanged. Moreover, the famous Zippo lifetime guarantee – "It works, or we fix it free™" – remains as true today as it was in 1932.

The number 500 Million is a half a billion. To help comprehend the magnitude of this number, Zippo trivia gurus have calculated these comparisons:

• A stack of 500,000,000 Zippo lighters would be taller than 14 Empire State Buildings.
• 500,000,000 Zippo lighters would weigh over 32,031 tons. That's more than 11,083 Jeeps!
• 500 million Zippo lighters laid end to end would extend eastward from Zippo's hometown, Bradford, Pennsylvania, to Bangkok, Thailand and back.

About Zippo

Zippo markets in more than 160 countries and is one of the most recognized brands in the world. Based in Bradford, PA, Zippo has produced nearly 500 million windproof lighters, each backed by an unparalleled lifetime guarantee. Zippo's diverse product line includes lighter accessories; butane candle lighters; watches, fragrance, and lifestyle accessories for men; and a robust line of heat and flame products for outdoor enthusiasts.  Zippo also owns the Ronson brand of lighters and fuel and W.R. Case and Sons Cutlery Company, both based in Bradford, PA.  For more information, visit Zippo.com.

SOURCE Zippo