History of Growth Defined by Values
As we move into 2013 and begin a new chapter in the Chemstar story, it seems fitting to look back on our history of growth and recognize the turning points on our journey to becoming the go-to company for starch-based polymer solutions.
The biggest influence on Chemstar’s growth has undoubtedly been our values. We’ve created a bond with our customers based on a significant and unbreakable amount of trust – trust that my father evoked over the long term and I was able to carry on. Our values have defined the growth of Chemstar and continue to guide us every step of the way.
1960s and 1970s
Chemstar’s first opportunity for growth came shortly after initial production in 1965 in McPherson, Kansas when our operations quickly expanded to meet rising demands for products in the oil and gas industries. The oil boom continued through the ‘70s, and advancements in technology led to the exploration of drilling and mining applications and the opening of our Carlton, Minnesota plant in 1979.
1980s
The oil boom dried up in the early ‘80s, but we didn’t give up during those rough times. We knew there were other markets we could serve outside of the oil and gas industries, and our ability to respond and create different starch-based molecules for different industries would prove crucial. In fact, that was one of the main reasons I was brought on board in 1984.
Next was our growth into starch derivatives during the ‘80s. Thanks to our knowledge of the industry and increasing exposure to the international market, we began to recognize the fact that drilling systems were changing and new properties were needed to adapt. Our R&D department connected the dots and began creating the necessary chemistry to invent custom starch solutions. Potato-based starches also became a large part of our product line and gave us an opportunity to broaden our portfolio both domestically and abroad.
1990s and Beyond
It wasn’t until the ‘90s that we finally knew we were really on to something. After identifying the need for increased expansion in our derivatives business, we added to the capacity and technical capabilities of our McPherson facility to support that expansion.
Derivative starch product sales and markets continued to grow, leading to our acquisition of an idle plant in Brookhaven, Mississippi. This expansion allowed us to maintain the highest quality standards while developing greater export volumes and researching new market challenges in the United States and across the globe.
While Chemstar has come a long way over the years, we’re always looking to improve. We will continue developing new starch-based solutions while remaining responsive to changes in the marketplace. The more we learn, the more we can create and pass those creations on to our customers.
Don’t hesitate to contact us to see how we can tailor our products to fit your needs.
-Jim Werler
President