Alan Ruud won his first IALD International Lighting Design Award in 1973. Thirty-five years later, Ruud is still innovating as president and chief executive officer of Ruud Lighting Inc., the largest privately held lighting company in the world.
The Racine-based company has experienced double-digit percentage revenue increases every year since 2001. Ruud said his company’s growth has been spurred by the firm’s ability to provide value at every level to a broad and diverse customer base.
“From the top end of the market to the bottom end of the market, we try to address all the market sectors,” he said. “So, we have products and companies that meet what the customers are really looking for.”
Always at the forefront of design, Ruud said his company is currently focused on the development and refinement of LED technology, which he called the first revolutionary change in the lighting industry since the fluorescent lamp in the 1930s.
“We are trying to provide leadership in the industry so that the industry is headed the right way as well,” he said.
Caryn Melton of Primum Marketing Communications said Ruud has the ability to see the big picture, recognize opportunities and develop products for future success, not just immediate profit.
“As an entrepreneur, Al Ruud is keenly aware of the importance of innovation, tying this into the business strategy and then communicating and encouraging this consistently,” said Melton, who nominated Ruud for the Bravo! Entrepreneur Award.
His belief in the future also has shaped Ruud’s philanthropic philosophy. Every year, he offers numerous scholarship opportunities to students seeking higher education.
“I think education is the real key to not only our company and our community, but to the country,” he said. “And we support a lot in that area.”
Address: 9201 Washington Ave., Racine
Web Site: www.ruudlighting.com
Industry: Lighting
Revenues: Double-digit increases since 2001
Employees: 450
