About Larson Company

About Us

The Larson Company is a unique dealership made up of products specific to the industries we serve. The main focus of the Larson Company is products for the education industry, however many of these products are used in the healthcare, worship, corporate and public environments also. The Larson Company team members are experienced in all stages of a project including planning, budgeting, help with samples, layouts, dimensions, installation, warranty and project close out.

Company History

The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company has been a prominent provider of dependable products for the educational, healthcare, worship, corporate and public industries for over 75 years. Keeping up with the latest trends, providing cutting edge products and maintaining a competitive edge is the foundation of Larson’s commitment to its clients. The Larson Company staff has evolved over the years through the experience and industry knowledge of its members. Our product offering has grown to meet the demands of our clients, and is updated as new technology is introduced. The Larson Company continues to be the Go-To dealer for Educational, Healthcare and Corporate products in Northern Illinois and some neighboring counties. Chris Lutz is the fourth owner in the history of the Company.

Meet Our Team

Larson team members have many years of industry experience and are experienced in all stages of a project including planning, budgeting, help with samples, layouts, dimensions, installation, warranty and project close out.

Barbara Adams – Book Keeper – Larson Company
Barbara Adams
Book Keeper
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Barbara
's Bio

With more than 20 years of experience at The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company, Barbara Adams has played a vital role in managing financial documentation and processing invoices. She is highly skilled in maintaining accurate records and safeguarding confidential information. Known for her organizational abilities, attention to detail and proficiency in office and accounting software, Barbara consistently streamlines processes, juggles multiple responsibilities with ease and fosters a collaborative team environment.

Rita Castro – Receptionist – Admin Assistant – Larson Company
Rita Castro
Receptionist – Admin Assistant
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Rita
's Bio

Since joining The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company in 2000, Rita Castro has been a key member of the administrative team, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. She oversees essential functions such as customer communication, scheduling logistics and managing office inventory. With strong organizational skills and a dedication to efficiency. Rita plays a vital role in supporting the team and contributing to Larson's continued success.

David Dillon – Sales Representative – Larson Company
David Dillon
Sales Representative
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David
's Bio

Dave has built a successful career in sales, business development and project management within the athletic equipment, flooring and furniture industries. Since 2018, he has been the Northern Illinois Sales Account representative at The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company, delivering tailored solutions for educational, corporate and public sector clients.

Dave’s prior experience includes stints in flooring, gym equipment and architecture companies, while also serving as a liaison to the Chicago Bulls, working closely with ownership and player personnel.

Brian Foley – Sales Representative – Larson Company
Brian Foley
Sales Representative
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Brian
's Bio

Brian's career in the furniture and equipment industry dates back decades. He joined The Larson Company in 2002, bringing his deep industry knowledge to provide tailored furniture and equipment solutions for the educational, healthcare, corporate and public sectors. His role at Larson involves providing his customers with solutions, leveraging his expansive understanding of his client's needs and industry trends.

Arthur Goldstein – Controller – Larson Company
Arthur Goldstein
Controller
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Arthur
's Bio

With more than five decades of experience in public accounting and construction finance, Arthur serves as Chief Financial Officer at Larson. He expertly manages the company’s day-to-day finances, bringing exceptional attention to detail and financial oversight. His extensive background includes specialized expertise in the construction industry’s accounting practices, financial forecasting and budget optimization. Arthur’s comprehensive understanding of financial regulations and reporting requirements ensures Larson maintains impeccable financial records while his financial planning helps drive the company’s continued growth and stability.

Brad Goldstein – Business Development – Larson Company
Brad Goldstein
Business Development
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Brad
's Bio

Brad joined the Larson Equipment and Furniture Company in 2025.  As a results-oriented sales leader, Brad, brings a reputation for trust and integrity from his corporate experience at companies, including FedEx and Uber. There, he held various roles, including individual contributor, operations and management positions. With proven success in strategic sales, new business development and driving revenue within the collaborative team, Brad is now bringing his experience to Larson.

John Kirschbaum – Sales Representative – Larson Company
John Kirschbaum
Sales Representative
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John
's Bio

John became a member of The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company in the early 2000’s, where he specializes in the distribution of furniture tailored to educational institutions, including grade schools, high schools and colleges.

John Kirschbaum built a distinguished career in the furniture manufacturing and distribution industry, demonstrating remarkable commitment and expertise throughout his professional journey.  John began his career at KI, a prominent manufacturer of innovative serving education, healthcare, government and corporate markets. During his tenure, John worked in sales, where he played a significant role in developing sales strategy and operations.

Mike Logan – Casework Department Manager – Larson Company
Mike Logan
Casework Department Manager
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Mike
's Bio

Mike joined The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company in 2005, where he continues to leverage his estimating and project management experience. His move to Larson allowed him to apply his project management skills to a new industry while maintaining his estimating & budgeting expertise.

Mike Logan is a seasoned professional in estimating and project management, bringing experience from both the construction and educational furniture industries. Mike began his professional career with a general contracting firm, specializing in estimating and project management.  He developed his expertise in the construction sector. Mike gained valuable experience managing complex projects and developing accurate cost estimations for diverse construction initiatives.

Chris Lutz – President – Larson Company
Chris Lutz
President
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Chris
's Bio

Chris joined the Larson Equipment and Furniture Company in 1991 and has since elevated his role to President after decades of industry experience. Chris is also the fourth owner of the company, which was founded by Martin O’ Larson back in the 1940’s. The company has grown significantly over the past 80 years to include a wider range of products and services in the Northern Illinois and Northwest Indiana territories. Chris has endeavored to continually bring on new team members with loads of industry experience to make Larson a stronger resource for its stakeholders and customers.  

Chris has always been a leader and heavily involved in all the industries he serves. He is a former Service Associate Advisory Chairman for Illinois Association of School Business Officials. Additionally, he held the position of President of Depaul University’s Chicago Entrepreneurial and Family Business Council (EFBC). Spending time with the EFBC helped Chris transition as a second-generation business owner, subsequently purchasing the business from his father, Bill Lutz, now retired.

Jack Lutz – Business Development – Larson Company
Jack Lutz
Business Development
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Jack
's Bio

Jack joined The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company in 2024, bringing fresh energy and perspective to our team. With a strong academic foundation and eagerness to learn, Jack has quickly become an integral part of our operations.

At Larson, Jack wears multiple hats, contributing across several key business functions. He works directly with our customers in a sales capacity, helping them identify the perfect furniture and equipment solutions for their unique needs.

Behind the scenes, Jack is developing expertise in project management, carefully tracking timelines and coordinating with vendors to ensure smooth execution. Jack's willingness to engage at every step of the process - from initial customer conversations through final installation - reflects Larson's commitment to comprehensive service.

John Messaglia – Sales Representative – Larson Company
John Messaglia
Sales Representative
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John
's Bio

John joined The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company as a sales representative in 2005.  John’s territory includes the south and southwest suburbs, in addition to northwest Indiana. His expertise encompasses all stages, from initial client consultations to project completion.

An IHSA basketball official since 1986, John officiated three state finals and was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2019, recognizing his dedication to the sport and professional excellence.

Neil O’Donnell – Business Development – Larson Company
Neil O’Donnell
Business Development
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Neil
's Bio

Since joining Larson in 2022, Neil has brought his extensive experience, where he combines his strategic vision with practical implementation, helping Larson market its presence and customer relationships throughout the northern Illinois suburbs and Chicago

Neil O'Donnell brings more than 20 years of diverse business experience to The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company. Beginning in the early 2000s, he spent several years as a Local Customer Service Associate, next as an Inside Sales Representative, and finally the next 15 years rising to Executive Vice President of Business Development at Progressive Industries. Neil has demonstrated leadership in the business community as a former President of the Entrepreneurial and Family Business Council. He maintains technical credentials as a Certified Playground Safety Inspector, reflecting his commitment to quality and safety standards.

Mark Robinson – Sales Representative – Larson Company
Mark Robinson
Sales Representative
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Mark
's Bio

Mark Robinson brings 30 years of experience to The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company. His career began in corporate operations and client relations, before later shifting to his expertise into workspace solutions for a locker manufacturer.

Since joining Larson in 2013, Mark has applied his broad expertise to deliver customized furniture solutions for clients in the education, healthcare, corporate and public sectors. Known for his attentive listening and strategic problem-solving, Mark's adaptability and commitment to continuous learning make him a trusted advisor for equipment and furniture needs.

Ted Shiakallis – Sales Representative – Larson Company
Ted Shiakallis
Sales Representative
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Ted
's Bio

Ted Shiakallis built his career in the metal products and furniture industries, demonstrating versatility and leadership across multiple roles over several decades. At Art Metal Products, he progressed through positions such as National Sales Manager, where he directed companywide sales strategy. His experience at Art Metal also includes leadership roles in purchasing, project management, and production & supply chain operations.

Since 1999, Ted has applied his considerable experience to The Larson Equipment and Furniture Company, managing territories in the northwest suburbs of Illinois and Chicago. Ted's background highlights strong adaptability and industry knowledge in manufacturing, sales and operations management.