Blended Waxes at 50: Half a Century of Wax Innovation

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 1 in 5 businesses do not make it past their first year, and nearly half close within five years. This year, Blended Wax reaches its 50th anniversary in business!

Since its founding in May 1976, Blended Waxes has grown from its early operations into a company that continues to support manufacturers across industries. That growth has come through continuous investment, problem-solving, and a commitment to meeting evolving customer needs, even through moments that required rebuilding and moving forward.

This anniversary, we’re highlighting what 50 years of experience looks like in practice.

A Foundation Built on Industry Roots

The history of Blended Waxes is tied to more than its founding date. Located in Oshkosh, an area shaped by strong German roots and a long-standing brewing and manufacturing tradition, the facility carries a deeper legacy. The site dates back to 1912, when it operated as The Peoples Brewing Company.

In 1974, part of that original brewery was cleared to make way for Blended Waxes. Just two years later, in May 1976, the company was officially established, building on that same foundation of craftsmanship and industrial expertise.

From the start, the business has continued to grow alongside the needs of its customers.

Growth Through Change and Challenge

Reaching 50 years requires navigating moments that test direction and decision-making.

For Blended Waxes, one of those moments came after a fire on July 4, 1994. Instead of slowing progress, it became a catalyst for rebuilding and expansion.

Construction followed. The facility was restored and expanded. Operations continued to evolve.

That moment reflects something important for customers today. Trust is built through how a company responds to challenges and continues forward.

Expanding Capabilities Over Time

Over the past five decades, Blended Waxes has consistently invested in its facility and operations to support growing demand and more complex customer needs.

That investment is visible across the site.

• Infrastructure updates, including the removal of outdated equipment to make room for new construction
• Expansion of storage capacity through the addition of large storage tanks
• Development of key production areas, including the Rotoformer and slabbing rooms
• Transformation of internal spaces to support lab work and employee operations
• Addition of specialized environments, such as a clean room
• Expansion of logistics capabilities, including a rail spur capable of holding multiple full-sized rail cars

Supporting Customers Across Industries

Today, Blended Waxes works with a wide range of customers, from small and mid-sized manufacturers to global organizations with large-scale production needs.

Those customers rely on a partner that offers flexibility, consistent quality, and the ability to collaborate on solutions tailored to their specific applications.

Fifty years of experience bring a deeper understanding of how different industries operate, how requirements shift, and how to deliver solutions that align with both performance and production goals.

Looking Ahead

Blended Waxes has spent the last 50 years building, expanding, and evolving. That mindset continues to shape how the company approaches the future.

Even as industries change and customer needs continue to evolve, our focus remains on providing reliable solutions, investing in capabilities, and building long-term partnerships.

Thank you to those who supported our business, and we look forward to what the future holds.