Zippo Windproof Lighter

Zippo is an American icon, founded in 1932 by George G. Blaisdell in Bradford, Pennsylvania. The brand was born from Blaisdell's desire to improve an Austrian chimney lighter, resulting in the famous windproof design with a hinged lid. Throughout its history, the company has remained committed to its "Made in USA" heritage, with the vast majority of its lighters and accessories still produced in its original hometown of Bradford. While the company briefly operated a second plant in Niagara Falls, Ontario, until 2002, all genuine Zippo windproof lighters are currently manufactured at the Pennsylvania facility.

Ownership of the brand has remarkably remained within the same family for nearly a century. After the founder's passing in 1978, the company transitioned to his daughters and eventually to his grandson, George B. Duke, who is the sole owner and Chairman of the Board as of 2026. This private ownership has allowed Zippo to maintain its famous lifetime guarantee—"It works or we fix it free"—while diversifying into lifestyle products, outdoor gear (like hand warmers), and acquiring other notable brands such as Ronson and W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co.