Sparks will fly in Bradford on June 5^th, when Zippo will produce its 500-millionth lighter.  “All manufactured right here in Bradford, Pennsylvania,” emphasizes Zippo President & CEO Greg Booth. 

The late George Blaisdell founded the company in 1932, and 80-years later Zippo lighters still carry his lifetime guarantee, “It works, or we fix it free.” 

The 500-millionth Zippo lighter will look like this.

On June 5^th the actual 500-millionth lighter will pass through a human chain of employees from the factory floor all the way to the nearby company museum, where it will be placed on permanent display. 

Booth says it will be a special day for the 600 plus employees who make the Zippo lighters, which are sold in 162-countries.  “Our employees work hard at it, our company works hard at it, and I’m just proud to be part of a company that can compete successfully – globally – and grow a business right here in Pennsylvania.” 

Zippo is currently experiencing a resurgence and just wrapped up the best quarter in the history of the company.  Booth tells Radio PA they’re up 30% in volume year-to-date. 

If a half-billion Zippo lighters were stacked on top of each other, the company says the tower would be the size of 14-Empire State Buildings. 

Collectors will be able to own a piece of Zippo history too.  About 60,000 lighters manufactured on June 5^th will be marked with a special stamp to commemorate the milestone.  The two versions will sell for $50 and $100 dollars respectively.