Napoleon is one of the most recognized names in premium outdoor cooking equipment. The brand is known for heavy stainless steel grills with strong infrared burners and long lasting builds.
Napoleon grills are made by Wolf Steel Ltd, a family owned company headquartered in Barrie Ontario. The company also produces fireplaces and home heating systems under the same roof.
So where exactly are Napoleon grills made and does that location affect quality? This guide covers the company behind the brand, the factories that build the grills, and whether the price tag is worth it. Keep reading to get the full picture before you buy.
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Who Owns Napoleon Grills
Napoleon is owned and operated by Wolf Steel Ltd, a private family business founded in 1976. Wolfgang Schroeter started the company as a small steel fabrication shop in Barrie Ontario.
The Napoleon brand launched with wood stoves before expanding into fireplaces and eventually grills. Today the company remains family run and employs well over a thousand people across its facilities.
Where Are Napoleon Grills Made
The majority of Napoleon grills are manufactured in Barrie Ontario, where the company operates its main production plant. The flagship Prestige and Prestige Pro lines are built there using stainless steel and cast aluminum.
Napoleon also runs manufacturing operations in Kentucky and China to support its wider product range. Even so the research and engineering work stays centered in Barrie to keep quality consistent across every plant.
A Look At Napoleon History
Napoleon began in 1976 as a steel fabrication business before launching its first wood stove a few years later. Gas fireplaces followed in the early 1990s, and the company entered the barbecue market not long after with its now famous WAVE cooking grid.
The Prestige Pro series arrived in 2010 with infrared SIZZLE ZONE burners that became a signature feature. Even after five decades the company stays family owned and still manufactures many of its products in Barrie.
Napoleon Compared To Other Grill Brands
Against rivals like Weber grills, Napoleon tends to offer more infrared cooking options and heavier stainless steel construction at a similar price point. Buyers looking for a built in option sometimes compare Napoleon to Coyote grills, which also target the higher end outdoor kitchen market.
Napoleon separates itself with its long history in gas fireplaces and heating, which carries over into how its burners are engineered.
Napoleon And Made In USA Considerations
Napoleon is a Canadian company first, so shoppers searching for made in USA grills should know its core manufacturing sits in Ontario rather than the United States. The company does run a facility in Kentucky, and some components for the US market come from there.
Buyers who prioritize North American manufacturing over a strict USA only label still get that assurance with Napoleon, since production close to home keeps sourcing tight and quality controlled.
Is Napoleon grills Worth The Investment
Napoleon grills sit in the premium price bracket and that price buys thick stainless steel, infrared searing burners, and long warranties.
Owners often point to the even heat and durable construction as reasons the grills last many grilling seasons.
Compared to entry level gas grills the upfront cost is higher but the running cost stays low thanks to fewer replacement parts. For anyone who grills often the investment tends to pay off over time.
Warranty And Customer Support
Napoleon backs its grills with warranties that vary by series, with the Prestige Pro line carrying some of the longest coverage terms in the industry. Replacement parts stay available for years after a model is discontinued, which owners often cite as a major perk.
Customer support runs through Napoleons own network rather than third party call centers, which tends to speed up resolution times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Napoleon grills made in Canada?
Yes, most Napoleon grills including the Prestige and Prestige Pro lines are manufactured at the companys plant in Barrie Ontario.
Who owns the Napoleon grill brand?
Napoleon is owned by Wolf Steel Ltd, a privately held family business founded in 1976.
Are Napoleon grills good quality?
Napoleon grills use thick stainless steel and infrared burner technology, and most owners consider them a durable premium option.
How long do Napoleon grills last?
With regular cleaning and cover use, a Napoleon grill can last well over a decade thanks to its stainless steel build and available replacement parts.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.