Miele is the only premium brand in the household appliance industry represented on all five continents. Carl Miele founded his company in Gutersloh, Germany in 1899, and it's still a family-owned and, family-run business. They manufacture not only vacuum cleaners, but also dishwashers, laundry systems, and cooking products. The Miele Company emphasizes environmental responsibility. Miele's Company goal is: "To manufacture products that are not only durable but conserve energy as well."