Sellars Marks 40th Anniversary With Call For ‘Messy Moments’

Sellars Absorbent Materials, a Milwaukee, WI-based company that was built on cleaning up spills, splashes and drips, is looking for “Messy Moments.” As part of its 40^th anniversary, Sellars wants anyone and everyone to submit any mess they’ve caused or encountered — whether it’s at work, home or anywhere else.

From April 29 – May 26, visit Sellars’ Facebook page for a chance to win a $400 prize package. To enter, snap a picture of a problem situation or area, share it as a comment on that week’s “Messy Moments” post and be sure to mention what the mess is. It can be fluid that’s leaked from a machine, a barrel that was overfilled or the breakroom where someone left portions of their spaghetti lunch splattered about.

Each week, a winner will be drawn and sent a $350 Visa e-card and $50 in Sellars’ products, including the company’s TOOLBOX^® Blue Shop Towels, TOOLBOX^®White Rags and Bravo paper towels.

“We all know stuff happens. Since it’s our 40^th anniversary of providing products that are used to wipe, clean and absorb, we thought it would be fun to share some of the unexpected messes that occur each and every day,” Sellars Vice President of Marketing Michelle Gross said.

Sellars was founded in 1985 by John Sellars in his garage. His first products were designed to replace the ineffective, expensive and messy “kitty litter” options that were regularly applied to absorb leaks, drips and spills on factory floors. In response, he created an absorbent mat and “socks” that could be put on floors and wrapped around machines.

In 1986 with sales ramping up, John’s brother Bill joined Sellars. In 1987, the business moved into its first manufacturing facility in Milwaukee. In subsequent years, two more siblings came on board. Brother Tom filled the position of CEO and sister Kathy (Sellars) Huntsinger headed up human resources.

Today, Sellars has grown to more than 200 employees. The company operates three manufacturing plants and four distribution centers and holds 20 U.S. and 30 international patents.

“Sellars is known for its proprietary technology that enables it to make high-performing products from recycled materials,” according to a press release. “In addition, as part of its manufacturing process, the company recycles its own production waste to create some of its absorbents.

“Distributors, facilities, businesses and maintenance and trade professionals are familiar with Sellars’ TOOLBOX^® Blue Shop Towels and TOOLBOX^® White Rags. The TOOLBOX blue towels are made with 60% recycled fiber and are found in auto shops, manufacturing plants, garages and homes. For DIYers, the white rags are great for painting, staining, wallpapering and many other uses indoors and out. Plus, they’re made from up to 45% recycled fibers.”