Zippo expects to make its 500 millionth lighter

[Hum]

PITTSBURGH ? Zippo Manufacturing, the northwestern Pennsylvania company that makes metal-cased cigarette lighters whose lids are known for their distinctive "click," is on schedule to produce its 500 millionth lighter this year.

And by ramping up production, Zippo is projecting it can make that happen on June 5 ? birthday of the late George Blaisdell, who founded the company in 1932 in Bradford, Pa., about 130 miles northeast of Pittsburgh.

"We are looking forward to making the sparks fly as we celebrate this accomplishment with our employees and Zippo enthusiasts around the world," president and chief executive officer Greg Booth said Monday.

The company counts millions of collectors, who are drawn to the lighters' retro-chic design, in addition to cigarette smokers who actually use the lifetime-guaranteed, windproof lighters to light up.

To celebrate the milestone, Zippo will produce about 60,000 replica lighters that day, each with a commemorative stamp.

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[Growled Member]

That's a lot of flicks.

[sanctified Veteran]

I know I love my zippo. Best lighter in the world. Excellent balance between design and utility.

[Dick Montage]

I keep meaning to get me a proper Zippo. But I lose lighters, so...

[Hum]

Unfortunately, most of those Zippos lit up cigarettes.

[Growled Member]

Unfortunately, most of those Zippos lit up cigarettes.

Maybe the cigarette makers should make designer cigarettes to mark the occasion. :D

[sanctified Veteran]

Maybe the cigarette makers should make designer cigarettes to mark the occasion. :D

I fully expect Camel to do that.