Auto Wax Company Turns 50!

Auto Wax Company, Inc. (AWC) was founded in August 1960 by Paul D. Miller and a partner named Jolley Byrd. They distributed reconditioning chemicals, which Paul had been making in his garage since the mid 50’s, to customers throughout Texas. Paul’s Auto Magic, a carpet cleaner, was their first product. The success generated by this entrepreneurial sales force of two in the Dallas market enabled them to begin targeting markets outside of their home base. Beginning in 1966, distributors throughout Texas, Oklahoma and five adjoining states began selling the now trademarked line of Auto Magic® reconditioning products to professional clientele.

Father and Son
In 1975 Paul’s son, David Miller, joined the company after graduating from Southern Methodist University. Like his father, David brought both entrepreneurial skills and an acute business sense with him, which enabled him to direct and lead the company’s rapid sales growth during the 1970’s and early 80’s. David developed a national sales force and made a commitment to quality by installing Auto Wax Company’s first chemical lab. By 1990, Auto Wax had evolved into an international competitor with distribution throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

More AWC Expansions
In 1994, AWC expanded its marketing efforts with the introduction of a line of products formulated for the body shop environment, Body Magic®. Also that year, AWC launched its retail program with Clay Magic®. Truly an innovator, Clay Magic® has revolutionized the reconditioning world with it's vehicle preparation clay bar.

In 2006 AWC was acquired by Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW) and is part of ITW's Finishing Group. Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW) designs and produces an array of highly engineered fasteners and components, equipment, consumable systems, and specialty products for customers around the world. A Fortune 200 diversified manufacturing company with more than 90 years of history, ITW's 700 decentralized business units in 48 countries employ nearly 50,000 men and women who are focused on creating value-added products and innovative customer solutions.

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