Half a Century of Excellence
This month marks a special milestone for the KILZ® brand as we proudly celebrate our 50th anniversary. Over the past five decades, the KILZ brand has grown from a groundbreaking primer to a trusted name in the coatings industry.
As we reflect on our journey, we want to take a moment to appreciate the milestones that have shaped our legacy.
Our story began in 1954 with Melvin Caldwell who founded Caldwell Paint Manufacturing Company in St. Louis, Missouri. This business would later be known as Masterchem Industries Inc, maker of the KILZ brands which debuted the iconic KILZ ORIGINAL Primer in 1974.
In 2000, a new chapter unfolded as Masterchem joined Masco Corporation, forming the Masco Coatings Group alongside Behr Paint Company. This strategic partnership helped us broaden our product offerings and expand our reach, setting the stage for our entry into the paint and specialty coatings category in 2003.
Our commitment to innovation continued in 2016 when the KILZ brand partnered with Joanna Gaines to introduce the Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines® line of paint, offering customers a unique blend of style and quality. Two years later, in 2018, we unveiled a refreshed KILZ label design, making it easier than ever for consumers to find the right primer for their projects.
Today, KILZ products can be found at leading home improvement retailers, and we’ve continued to expand into adjacent categories to meet the evolving needs of our customers. Whether it’s tackling tough stains, creating a smooth surface for paint, or helping bring beautiful designs to life, the KILZ brand has been there every step of the way.
As we celebrate 50 years, we look forward to continuing to deliver high-quality products for both DIYers and professionals for many years to come. Here’s to another 50 years of excellence!
Visit kilz.com to learn more.