Carlson Company History and Business Evolution

Carlson is a leading global provider of technology and business solutions, founded in 1983 by O. C. (Ole) Carlson.

The company's early success was driven by its innovative approach to providing mapping and navigation solutions.

Carlson's first major product was its Carlson Survey software, which revolutionized the surveying industry by providing a user-friendly and efficient solution for surveyors.

Carlson's commitment to innovation has continued to drive its business evolution over the years, with a focus on developing technology solutions that meet the changing needs of its customers.

Throughout its history, Carlson has remained committed to its core values of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.

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The Carlson Company has a rich history of pushing conventional boundaries to redefine the landscape of specialty flange solutions. At its core, the company's mission is to provide industry-leading solutions to its diverse customer base.

The company's commitment to innovation lies at the heart of its mission. This means staying ahead of the curve, embracing creativity, and investing in leading solutions to meet and exceed customer expectations.

Carlson Company believes in establishing long-term partnerships with its customers to understand their unique challenges. This approach ensures that each solution is a testament to the Carlson legacy.

The company's focus on continuous improvement and strategic investments in its people and business has enabled it to achieve its mission.

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Carlson's Business Strategy is built on a foundation of innovation and customer-centricity.

Carlson's commitment to innovation has led to the development of various technologies, such as its loyalty program.

The company's customer-centric approach has resulted in a strong focus on customer satisfaction, with a goal of providing a seamless travel experience.

By prioritizing customer needs, Carlson has established a loyal customer base and a reputation for excellence in the industry.

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Carlson's foray into the hospitality industry began in 1962 with the purchase of a vintage Radisson Hotel in Minneapolis.

The company grew rapidly by franchising the Radisson name and taking management contracts for new hotels across the country.

In 1973, the company was renamed Carlson Companies, Inc.

Carlson ventured into the restaurant business in 1975 by acquiring an interest in TGI Fridays.

By 1989, Carlson had full ownership of TGI Fridays.

The company also purchased Country Kitchen, a chain of family-style restaurants, in 1977, but sold the brand in 1997.

For another approach, see: Radisson Hotel Group

Carlson acquired E.F. MacDonald Motivation Co. in 1981, making it the largest trading stamp company in the world at the time.

The company established the Country Inns & Suites brand in 1986.

In 1994, Carlson merged its travel agencies with Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits to form CWT, a travel management company.

Carlson acquired Regent Hotels & Resorts from Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in 1997.

Curt Carlson named his daughter Marilyn Carlson Nelson as his successor in spring 1998.

The company acquired Park Inn by Radisson and Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts in 2000.

Carlson acquired 25% of Rezidor Hotel Group in 2005, a business partner in the EMEA markets.

Rezidor became a subsidiary of the Carlson hotel group in 2010, retaining its listing status.

The hotel group rebranded as Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group in January 2012.

In 2022, CWT received a capital injection from owners, resulting in Carlson moving from majority to minority ownership.

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In May 2013, Diana Nelson took over as chair of the board of directors from her mother, Marilyn Carlson Nelson.

Diana Nelson's assumption of the chairmanship marked a significant change in leadership for the company.

Marilyn Carlson Nelson continued to serve as chairman emeritus after stepping down.

Rautio retired in 2015, leading to separate CEOs for the hotel and travel businesses.

The company sold TGI Fridays to Sentinel Capital Partners and TriArtisan Capital Partners for $800 million in 2014.

The hotel division was sold to HNA Group in 2016, and the division was renamed Radisson Hotel Group in 2018.

The company's divesting efforts have been a key part of its business strategy in recent years.

Here is a brief timeline of the company's major divestitures: