Special Events :: U.S. Business Hall of Fame

 

Laureate Archive | Alpha Order: H
Walter A. Haas
Levi Strauss & Co.
Walter A. Haas
(1889 - 1979)
Inducted: 1979
Region: West
Industry: Apparel
Walter Haas led Levi’s transformation from a family business to a worldwide corporation epitomizing 1950ís youth culture. Haas became president of the company in 1928 during a difficult period of back-to-back deficits. He was reticent to lay off employees because of Levi’s long-standing reputation for considerate treatment of workers. The loyal and dedicated employees produced quality products that no doubt contributed to the company’s turnaround.