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The Story and Legacy of American Dryer Hand Dryers

American Dryer was once a powerhouse in the hand dryer industry, known for its innovation, reliability, and American-made quality. With the introduction of the ExtremeAir® series, American Dryer positioned itself as a top competitor to brands like Excel Dryer. However, after its acquisition by World Dryer and later Zurn, the brand’s momentum faded, and production was moved overseas. While the brand no longer dominates the market, its legacy remains, and its impact on the hand dryer industry is undeniable. ProDryers® has a deep-rooted connection to American Dryer, as it was one of the first brands we ever sold. Shop our collection today or contact us for expert guidance. Read below to get the full history of American Dryer.

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The Rise of American Dryer: A Pioneer in Hand Drying Technology

Founded in Livonia, Michigan, American Dryer was a key innovator in the commercial hand dryer industry. The company quickly gained recognition for manufacturing high-performance dryers, with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and durability. For years, it was one of the top competitors to Excel Dryer’s XLERATOR and was widely chosen for schools, stadiums, and high-traffic restrooms due to its robust design and reliable performance.

The ExtremeAir® Series: A Game-Changer in the Industry

One of American Dryer's greatest contributions to the industry was the ExtremeAir® series. This high-speed, energy-efficient dryer was designed to provide fast drying times while using less energy than traditional models. The brand introduced no-heat options, adjustable speed settings, and compact designs, making it a preferred choice for architects and facility managers seeking eco-friendly restroom solutions.

The Turning Point: When American Dryer Was Acquired

In 2016, World Dryer acquired American Dryer, marking a turning point for the brand. Initially, hopes were high that this acquisition would further strengthen its market position. However, over time, World Dryer focused more on its existing products, and American Dryer’s identity began to fade. The decision to remove Minimum Advertised Pricing (MAP) caused price wars among distributors, cutting into profit margins and reducing the brand’s perceived value.

From USA Manufacturing to Overseas Production

One of the biggest changes following the acquisition was the shift from U.S.-based manufacturing to Malaysia. American Dryer had previously been proud of its Made in the USA status, but the move overseas reduced its appeal to businesses seeking domestically produced products. This change, along with increased competition from lower-cost, foreign-made hand dryers on platforms like Amazon, contributed to its decline.

Why American Dryer Still Holds a Place in the Market

Despite the challenges the brand has faced, American Dryer products are still available and offer strong performance at competitive prices. Many facilities that installed ExtremeAir® hand dryers years ago continue to rely on them today. Businesses looking for cost-effective, high-speed hand dryers may still find American Dryer a viable option, particularly for budget-conscious commercial projects.

The ProDryers® Connection: How American Dryer Shaped Our Journey

ProDryers® has a unique and personal connection to American Dryer. It was the first hand dryer brand we ever sold, and it played a significant role in shaping our business. The growing demand for competing brands led us to expand our offerings, transforming ProDryers from a niche retailer into one of the leading national distributors of commercial restroom products. While American Dryer is no longer the industry leader it once was, its story is deeply intertwined with ours, and we remain proud to offer its products.

Shop American Dryer Hand Dryers at ProDryers®

Though American Dryer is no longer the dominant force it once was, its hand dryers are still trusted in many facilities. At ProDryers®, we continue to offer American Dryer products at the best prices available. If you have an existing ExtremeAir® or another American Dryer model and need replacements, we can help. Call us today at 888-503-7937 or request a quote online for expert guidance and unbeatable pricing.

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