Kohler Company

What Kohler Company does

Kohler Company is a privately held American manufacturer founded in 1873 by John Michael Kohler in Wisconsin and currently led by fourth-generation Chair and CEO David Kohler. The company produces a diversified portfolio of kitchen and bath fixtures (toilets, sinks, faucets, showers, bathtubs), luxury and wellness products (Ann Sacks tile, Kallista, KLAFS saunas, Robern, Sterling, Kast), smart home-integrated offerings (Anthem EvoCycle recirculating smart shower, Aquifer 4-in-1 beverage system, Veil smart toilet, Kohler Health Dekoda spectroscopy tracker), and operates luxury hospitality venues (The American Club, LODGE KOHLER, Saint Kate, Whistling Straits). Manufacturing spans eight countries (USA, Canada, China, India, Mexico, Thailand, South Korea, Morocco) with a global workforce of 30,000-38,000 associates, supported by vertically integrated cast iron foundry, vitreous china, brassware, and enamel capabilities, the proprietary WasteLAB program converting manufacturing waste into tile collections, and the Arts/Industry artist residency program operating since 1974.

Core technical differentiators include proprietary spectroscopy in the Dekoda health tracker, closed-loop water recirculation reducing shower consumption by up to 80%, WasteLAB tiles made from over 70% recycled manufacturing waste, and a patented smart sink line integrated with Google voice controls. Revenue is generated primarily through one-time product sales across wholesale distribution (Triton Stone Group, plumbing distributors), DTC e-commerce (Kohler.com, Amazon), Ann Sacks showrooms, Kohler Signature Stores and Experience Centers, and direct enterprise sales teams handling hospitality and builder/contractor specifications. A subscription revenue stream has been introduced via the Dekoda device ($379-$599 plus monthly fees). In May 2024, Kohler divested its energy division (Kohler Engines) to Platinum Equity, rebranded as Rehlko, retaining a minority stake and refocusing the parent exclusively on kitchen, bath, wellness, and hospitality.

The customer base spans premium residential homeowners, luxury hospitality operators, builders/contractors/designers served through the Sterling trade brand, underserved communities reached via the Innovation for Good product line (Loope, Rinse, Cleanse, Unify), and emerging Middle East luxury buyers served through the Bayt Al Ebaa partnership. Geographic expansion is active, most visibly in Saudi Arabia via the Riyadh Signature Store. Marketing centers on design leadership at KBIS (Best of Show 2023-2025), Milan Design Week installations, artist collaborations (Daniel Arsham, Nada Debs, Studio McGee, Flamingo Estate), and the in-house Beacon creative team (10 Telly Awards). Strategic digital infrastructure is delivered through a multi-year Cognizant partnership covering cloud, AI-driven security, and data operations, providing the technology backbone for post-divestiture operating model.

Name

Kohler Company

Legal name

Kohler Co.

Website

https://kohlercompany.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1873

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

5,001–10,000 employees

Short description

Kohler Company is a privately held, 150-year-old American manufacturer of kitchen, bath, and wellness products with 30,000+ global associates, serving premium residential, luxury hospitality, and trade customers through vertically integrated manufacturing across eight countries and a portfolio of owned brands including Ann Sacks, Kallista, KLAFS, Robern, and Sterling.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Bathroom Fixtures and Kitchen Plumbing

NAICS

Household and Institutional Furniture and Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturing (3371)

SIC

Wholesale-Hardware & Plumbing & Heating Equipment & Supplies (5070)

akta.pro primary industry

Sinks & Water Filtration/Dispensers Showrooms (CRAIAFAE)

Keywords

• Kitchen bath fixtures
• Luxury plumbing products
• Smart bathroom technology
• Wellness spa products
• Cast iron manufacturing

Headquarters

HQ city

Kohler

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices5 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B and B2C

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Operations, Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Kitchen and Bath Products: Core business segment encompassing toilets, sinks, faucets, bathtubs, showers, and bathroom accessories sold through wholesale, retail, and direct channels. Revenue generated through one-time product sales to consumers, builders, contractors, and hospitality clients.
2. Luxury Brands Portfolio: Premium brands including Ann Sacks (luxury tile), Kallista (luxury plumbing), Robern (medicine cabinets, lighting), Kast (stone basins), and Sterling (contractor-focused products) operate as separate premium product lines with higher price points and design differentiation.
3. Wellness Products: Growing wellness segment including Klafs saunas, Kohler Saunas, ice baths, steam systems, and hydrotherapy products targeting premium residential and hospitality wellness markets.
4. Hospitality and Golf Resort: Luxury hospitality through The American Club resort (Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond), Kohler Waters Spa, and championship golf courses including Whistling Straits (multiple major tournament host). Also includes LODGE KOHLER in Green Bay and Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel in Milwaukee.
5. Energy Division (Former): Kohler Co. previously operated an energy division (engines, generators, power systems) which was spun off to Platinum Equity as Rehlko in May 2024. Kohler retained an ownership stake but shifted focus entirely to kitchen and bath products business.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion4 records

Distribution channels6 records

Marketing channels9 records

Core offering

Kohler Co. is a vertically integrated global manufacturer and seller of premium kitchen and bath fixtures, including toilets, sinks, faucets, bathtubs, and showers, sold under the Kohler brand and sub-brands (Ann Sacks, Kallista, Robern, Sterling, Klafs, Kast). The company also produces wellness products (saunas, ice baths, steam systems), smart home-integrated products with proprietary health tracking and water efficiency technologies, and operates luxury hospitality and golf resort properties. Sustainable products are commercialized through the WasteLAB initiative that converts manufacturing waste into tile and sink collections.

Product overview

Kohler Company offers a diversified portfolio of kitchen and bath products, wellness solutions, and luxury hospitality experiences. The core product portfolio includes plumbing fixtures (faucets, toilets, sinks, showers), smart home-enabled products (Anthem EvoCycle smart showers, Aquifer 4-in-1 beverage systems, Veil smart toilets), wellness products (Kohler Saunas, Ice Bath by Remedy Place, SpaViva handshowers), and sustainable products through WasteLAB (tiles, sinks made from recycled materials). The Innovation for Good platform develops social impact products including Loope waterless toilets, Rinse pail-flush toilets, Cleanse hands-free faucets, and Unify power solutions for underserved communities. Sub-brands include Ann Sacks (luxury tiles), Kallista (luxury faucets), Klafs (wellness products), Robern (medicine cabinets), and Sterling (contractor products). Acquired brands include KLAFS (wellness), Curtis Instruments (electrification), and Sterling Plumbing Group.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• KOHLER WasteLAB DemiLav Handcrafted lavatory sink made from at least 70% recycled materials sourced from Kohler's manufacturing waste streams, shaped and finished by skilled artisans in small batches with subtle variations. Targeted at design-conscious consumers and luxury residential projects.
• Kohler Anthem EvoCycle Recirculating Smart Shower Closed-loop smart shower system that filters and reuses shower water, reducing water consumption by up to 80% per shower session while maintaining full-pressure output. Features ozone sanitation, automated cleaning cycles, and app connectivity for temperature and usage monitoring. Targeted at sustainability-conscious premium residential and hospitality markets.
• Kohler Aquifer 4-in-1 Beverage System Kitchen faucet delivering filtered still, chilled, sparkling, and near-boiling water on demand, with motion-activated digital interface and an undercounter unit managing filtration and carbonation. Available in multiple finishes and spout heights for premium residential kitchens.
• Kohler Health Dekoda Toilet-mounted health tracking device using proprietary spectroscopy technology to analyze biological markers including hydration balance, nutrient absorption, and blood detection, delivering insights through a secure encrypted platform. Earned iF DESIGN AWARD Gold. Priced $379-$599 with subscription fees for ongoing biomarker analysis and health tracking.
• KOHLER Loope Waterless Toilet Container-based sanitation solution for dense urban environments that operates without water, electricity, or sewer. Dual compartments separate solids and fluids, made of entirely recyclable materials. Recipient of iF Design Award Gold. Targeted at underserved communities and dense urban markets.
• KOHLER Rinse Pail-Flush Toilet Seated sanitation solution using only 1.5-2 liters of water per flush, designed for communities with limited water access. Features a vitreous china bowl glazed for scratch and stain resistance, adaptable to pit, tank, and traditional sewer installations. Targeted at communities with water scarcity.
• KOHLER Cleanse Hands-Free Faucet Hands-free handwashing faucet designed for developing world applications. Attaches to a common bucket or hose, operates without electricity or plumbing, and features an auto-close valve to save water. Designed for outdoor installation up to 15 psi. Targeted at humanitarian deployments and underserved communities.
• Kohler Saunas Premium sauna collection in indoor and outdoor models across small, medium, and large configurations, featuring Scandinavian Spruce interiors, advanced mineral wool insulation, touchscreen controls, and integrated ambiance lighting. Targeted at premium residential and hospitality wellness markets.
• Ice Bath by Kohler x Remedy Place Cold therapy ice bath created in partnership with Remedy Place, combining precision temperature control, ergo-dynamic body positioning, UV-powered filtration, and integrated light for breathwork guidance. Certified for indoor and outdoor use. Targeted at wellness-focused consumers and luxury hospitality.
• Kohler Anthem+ Digital Showering System Digital showering system with steam and ice features for advanced shower experiences, launched at KBIS 2025. Targeted at premium residential and luxury hospitality markets.
• Kohler Billet Kitchen Faucet Collection Kitchen faucet collection featuring industrial character and modern refinement with distinctive raw casting details, chamfered edges, and bridge waterway options. Won KBIS 2025 Silver in Style Statement: Kitchen category. Targeted at design-forward residential and hospitality kitchens.
• Kohler SpaViva Handshower and All-In-One Cleansing Device Handshower and all-in-one cleansing device combining skincare tools with deep clean via Microbubble Spray technology targeting pores, including magnetically docking cleansing device with four brush heads rotating at three speeds. Won KBIS 2024 Gold in Wellness Trailblazer category. Targeted at wellness-focused residential consumers.
• Kohler Reverie Cast Iron Bathtub Enameled cast iron bathtub featured in the Flamingo Estate Bathhouse collaboration at Milan Design Week 2026. First Kohler product to use copper as a defining material in bath design. Targeted at luxury residential and high-design hospitality.
• Kohler Smart Sinks with Water-Monitoring Sensors Smart kitchen sinks with integrated water-monitoring sensors and Google voice control integration for hands-free water management and consumption tracking. Targeted at smart-home-connected consumers and modern residential kitchens.
• Kohler Smart Bidet Seats with UV Sanitation Automated bidet seats with integrated UV sanitation technology for enhanced bathroom hygiene. Targeted at premium residential bathrooms and wellness-focused consumers.
• KOHLER WasteLAB Tile Collections Sustainability initiative converting landfill-bound manufacturing materials (dry pottery cull, cast iron slag, waste glaze, waste enamel powder, pottery wastewater sludge, vitreous cull, foundry dust, foundry sand) into artisanal tile collections and sinks. Includes Landshapes (Daniel Arsham collaboration), Transcendence (Nada Debs collaboration), Abstra, and Crackle collections, plus the WasteLAB Vox sink made from over 70% recycled materials. Targeted at design-conscious consumers and luxury residential projects.
• KOHLER Unify Solar-Generator Power Solution Solution blending solar and generator power to support displaced populations. Automatically monitors solar power and switches to generator power when needed. Targeted at humanitarian deployments and underserved communities lacking reliable electricity.
• The American Club Luxury Resort Luxury resort property holding both Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond honors, owned and operated by Kohler Co. as part of its hospitality and golf resort portfolio. Includes championship golf courses including Whistling Straits (multiple major tournament host). Targeted at luxury leisure travelers and golf enthusiasts.
• LODGE KOHLER and Saint Kate Arts Hotel Luxury hospitality properties in Wisconsin featuring Kohler products throughout guest rooms and public spaces. LODGE KOHLER is located in Green Bay, while Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel is a Milwaukee arts hotel featuring culturally and artistically inspired spaces. Targeted at business travelers, leisure guests, and arts patrons.

Quantifiable outcome

• Reduced Scope 1 + 2 GHG emissions by 9% in 2025 through energy efficiency and fuel-switching
• +7 more outcomes

Named customers11 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

AI capability1 record

Feature11 records

Partnerships

18 partnerships are on record, tiered flagship, core and strategic.

• Flamingo Estate / Richard ChristiansenflagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 2 April 2026Creative partnership with Richard Christiansen of Flamingo Estate for Flamingo Estate Bathhouse by Kohler installation at Milan Design Week 2026. Features 247-square-meter brutalist bathhouse with Reverie cast iron bathtub and copper shroud, plus pollinator baths. Highlights sustainability, wellness, and artisanal craftsmanship.
• CognizantcoreTechnology or Integration · 29 January 2026Multi-year extension of strategic digital services partnership deepening collaboration on next-generation digital and operational infrastructure. Agreement integrates advanced cloud management, modernized infrastructure, and AI-driven security and observability across enterprise systems, digital experiences, data operations, and cybersecurity. Collaboration supports Kohler's digital transformation and previously enabled carve-out of Kohler Energy.
• Remedy PlaceflagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 February 2025Wellness partnership with Dr. Jonathan Leary, Founder and CEO of Remedy Place, to create Ice Bath by Kohler x Remedy Place. Combines Kohler's advanced engineering with Remedy Place's cold therapy expertise for precision temperature control, UV filtration, and breathwork guidance. Won KBIS Gold Wellness Trailblazer award.
• KLAFS (acquired from Egeria Group)coreOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing Partner · 1 January 2023German manufacturer of wellness products including saunas and spa equipment. Acquisition expected to close Q1 2024, incorporating KLAFS into Kohler's Luxury Brands division to expand global wellness offerings.
• The Nature ConservancystrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2023Global environmental organization partnering with Kohler to restore Monterrey, Mexico watershed through tree planting, firebreak building, and soil conservation strategies to replenish local aquifer and ensure long-term water security.
• Isla UrbanastrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2023Nonprofit organization implementing rainwater harvesting systems. Kohler partnered with Isla Urbana in Monterrey, Mexico to install rainwater harvesting systems in local schools, ensuring students have access to clean water even during shortages.
• Water MissioncoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2020Humanitarian organization focused on safe water and sanitation. Kohler partnered with Water Mission to install over 120 Healthy Latrines in El Carrizal, Honduras since 2020, each including KOHLER pour-flush toilet and covered sink with running water. Partnership expanded to Padre Cocha, Peru for Cleanse handwashing installations benefiting 2,250 people. Water Mission has provided Healthy Latrines to thousands of families using Kohler products.
• Daniel ArshamflagshipStrategic or Co-development PartnerArtist collaboration creating Landshapes Tile Collection featuring sculptural ceramic forms inspired by geological formations. Made in Kohler WasteLAB, the collection won KBIS 2025 Gold in Sustainable Standout category and Best in Show booth design recognition.
• Nada DebsflagshipStrategic or Co-development PartnerArtist collaboration creating Transcendence Tile Collection by Kohler WasteLAB x Nada Debs. Collection made from nearly 100% recycled waste materials with blue color palette inspired by sweeping archways. Won KBIS 2024 Silver in Sustainable Standout category.
• Studio McGeecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerExpanded partnership with design studio for product collaborations and showroom experiences. Studio McGee brings residential design expertise to Kohler's product development and customer engagement initiatives.
• Bayt Al EbaaflagshipChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorExclusive partnership for first Kohler Signature Store in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Bayt Al Ebaa developed the 4,000+ square meter experiential showroom aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and Quality-of-Life Program. First of multiple planned locations in Kingdom.
• Kristina Zanic ConsultantscoreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerInterior design consultancy designing the first Kohler Signature Store in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Created immersive environments showcasing sustainable designs, smart home technology, and KALLISTA luxury brand.
• NFIstrategicChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorNorth American third-party logistics provider. Launched new 80,000-square-foot logistics operation at Milton, Ontario facility to enhance distribution for Kohler's Canadian wholesale and retail networks, integrating with existing North American logistics operations.
• GooglecoreTechnology or IntegrationVoice controls integration for Kohler smart sinks with water-monitoring sensors. Partnership enables voice-activated functionality for smart kitchen products including the August 2024 launch of smart sinks.
• Hudson Valley Property GroupstrategicStrategic or Co-development PartnerReal estate development company. Multi-million dollar renovation partnership in 2025 using KOHLER water-saving kitchen and bathroom products for affordable housing projects.
• iDEcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerInternational development organization. Partnership to provide safe sanitation option in Ghana for families requiring seated toilet for older members or those with special needs. Over 350 KOHLER pour-flush toilets installed, with low-flush design important due to water shortage.
• Curtis InstrumentscoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerCompany specializing in electrification solutions for OEMs operating in 16 countries. Acquisition expands Kohler's power portfolio by integrating Curtis's electrification expertise with existing engine business.
• John Michael Kohler Arts CentercoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerNon-profit contemporary art museum and performing arts complex in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Partnership since 1974 for Arts/Industry residency program bringing artists to work in Kohler factories alongside skilled associates. Program has hosted 500+ artists from 25+ countries.

Scale indicators13 records

Recent moves11 records

Expansion highlights7 records

Broad incumbents

• LIXIL Corporation: Japanese housing and building-products group owning American Standard, Grohe, INAX, and others. Broad incumbent covering faucets, sanitary ware, windows, and doors — overlapping with Kohler's kitchen/bath portfolio at scale.
• Ferguson Enterprises Inc. Largest U.S. wholesale distributor of plumbing, heating, and waterworks supplies. Not a manufacturer but the dominant channel through which Kohler, Moen, Delta, and others reach contractors — making it the most influential adjacent player in the same end market.

Direct peers

• TOTO Ltd. Japanese global leader in ceramic sanitary ware, smart toilets (Washlet), and bath fixtures. Closest direct competitor to Kohler in toilets and integrated bathroom suites, with comparable premium positioning and a strong technology/sustainability narrative.
• Moen Incorporated (Fortune Brands Innovations): U.S. leader in faucets, showers, and bath safety products, owned by Fortune Brands Innovations. Competes head-to-head with Kohler in trade/wholesale channels and increasingly in connected water-saving fixtures.
• Hansgrohe SE: Independent German premium shower and faucet manufacturer (Axor, hansgrohe brands). Comparable premium positioning, design-led portfolio, and hotel/hospitality channel exposure to Kohler's Kallista and luxury bath lines.
• Duravit AG: German premium bathroom ceramics and furniture manufacturer. Comparable design-led premium positioning with strong international hospitality and residential references, similar to Kohler's Kallista and luxury-bath positioning.
• Grohe AG (LIXIL Group): German premium faucet and shower systems brand under LIXIL. Direct competitor in the European-style premium kitchen/bath segment and in sustainability-certified products (Grohe EcoJoy, Zero).
• Delta Faucet Company (Masco Corporation): U.S. kitchen and bath faucet manufacturer owned by Masco. Direct peer across trade and retail channels, with overlapping smart-product roadmap (voice, touch, water monitoring).
• Villeroy & Boch AG: European premium bath, ceramics, and tile brand. Direct competitor in the decorative/premium bathroom category where Kohler's Ann Sacks and Kast sub-brands also compete.
• American Standard Brands (LIXIL Group): LIXIL's flagship North American bath and kitchen brand. Competes directly with Kohler in toilets, faucets, and bathtubs across residential and light commercial segments.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat7 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

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• Xx.com/kohlerjobs

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles2 records

Subsidiaries7 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A1 record

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Kohler Company