While teaching physics and chemistry to university students, Birger Hatlebakk was privately experimenting with electrochemical processes. He discovered a method for electrochemical surface treatment of aluminium, which he called glamoxation (from the Norwegian words glatt-matt-oxydert). He initially used this process for various industrial purposes. The lighting company Glamox was founded when Birger Hatlebakk realised how the glamoxation process could be used to manufacture efficient aluminium reflectors for powerful luminaires.
Early days
A number of successful lighting products was developed, and a purpose-made factory was built in Molde, Hatlebakk’s home town. By 1959, there were 147 employees, and a solid financial platform for further expansion had been established.
Glamox goes international
The 1960's saw a rapid expansion of the product range and sales volume, and Glamox developed sales organisations in Sweden, Denmark anorganid the United Kingdom. By 1969, there were 470 employees. During the 70's production was also established in Finland. Sales companies were established in Finland, Germany and Austria, and the first deliveries to the North Sea marine and offshore installations were performed. The factory in Estonia was established in 1992.
Further expansion
In the following years, Glamox grew steadily through organic growth. Sales companies and production facilities were established in North America and Asia. A strong focus on product development resulted in innovations in products, technologies and design awards. In addition to supplying luminaries, Glamox also supplies light management systems. Advanced systems, inlcuding those for Human Centric Lighting applications, have been devised and implemented to improve user performance, comfort and sleep. The development of LED technology has played a key role in this evolution.
In recent years, Glamox has expanded through several acquisitions in various geographical markets and segments.