The Kirby Company is a subsidiary of the Scott Fetzer Company, part of the Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate overseen by Warren Buffett.

Based in Cleveland, Ohio, USA; it is a producer of vacuum cleaners and a multitude of home cleaning accessories. It relies entirely on door to door sales, using its advertising budget towards paying salesmen rather than selling wholesale, retail or through television or print advertisements.

Kirby vacuum cleaners maintain a retro look reminiscent of the first model dating back to the 1920s. Kirby cleaners have earned a strong reputation due to power, versatility, and a long unit life time, despite a purchase price significantly higher than most competitors. Current models use Micron Magic HEPA Filtration system, and a dry foam shampoo attachment called the Carpet Shampoo System. The first Kirby vacuums were designed by Jim Kirby for George Scott and Carl Fetzer after World War I.

Expansion

In 1970, input from Kirby Distributors, Dealers, management and customers guided Kirby engineers in developing the Kirby Classic.

Sales soared, forcing the company to expand its manufacturing facilities outside of Cleveland for the first time. In 1972, Kirby West began operations in Andrews, Texas. The facility doubled the company’s manufacturing capabilities.

Warranty

The Kirby warranty varies depending on the model sold, and is often for three or more years. The warranty on the current model, the Ultimate-G Diamond Edition is a three year factory limited warranty with a lifetime factory rebuild agreement.