Home History The Ivan Allen Company

The Ivan Allen Company

by Chris Schroder

At the dawn of the 20th century, Ivan Allen, Sr. transitioned from the typewriter business to an office supply retailer that generated millions of dollars, hundreds of jobs and a family business that endured for more than 100 years.

The firm grew to 17 offices across the Southeast under the leadership of former Atlanta mayor Ivan Allen, Jr., who served as president from 1946-1970.

The supply division of the company was sold to Staples, Inc. in 1999. The last family tie to the furniture portion of the business ended in 2009 when Allen, Sr.’s great granddaughter sold her company stake.

– Mark C. McDonald, Georgia Trust

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2 comments

Quentin Abbott June 14, 2020 - 1:57 am

I remember Ivan Allen when he was Mayor of Atlanta, I also worked for United Stationers, we kelp Mr Allen.’s Company Supplied .
Mr.. Allen was fine gentleman.

Reply
M. May 4, 2023 - 10:36 am

My father was a delivery driver for the Ivan Allen company, I remember the green uniforms and their trucker hats. My father would have yellow legal pads and ink pens all throughout his van. Those were the days!!!

Reply

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