| (1914
- 1999) |
| Inducted: |
2003 |
| Region: |
U.S. |
| Industry: |
Retail
|
|
Carlson Companies Founder Curtis L. Carlson was known for his bold and entrepreneurial spirit, and a "golden touch," which inspired him to start a small business that grew into one of the largest privately held companies in the world.
With a $55 loan from his landlord, Carlson founded the Gold Bond Stamp Company in 1938. As the booming trading-stamp business began to mature in the 1960s, Carlson diversified his company and changed its name to Carlson Companies in 1973. Today, Carlson Companies specializes in relationship marketing; hospitality, including the Radisson Hotels & Resorts and T.G.I. Friday's brands; and business and leisure travel services. |
