Brand Heritage

Discover the innovative and dependable products that have made Hamilton Beach a trusted name since 1910.

Louis Hamilton and Chester Beach teamed up in the early 1900s in a collaboration that would lead to more than 100 years of industry firsts that would enhance homes and businesses around the globe. One early milestone was Mr. Beach’s perfection of a universal electric motor that could operate on both alternating and direct current. This patented motor was used to power machines that ended the era of muscle-powered chores such as mixing. Over the years, products introduced under the Hamilton Beach name have made life easier and more enjoyable.

In 1904, L.H. Hamilton and Chester Beach both worked for U.S. Standard Electrical Works in Racine, Wisconsin. The business manufactured electrical devices and began to develop a line of motor operated products for household use. At the time, electric motors were only used in commercial applications. Chester Beach developed an innovative lightweight universal motor used for appliances in the home. The Hamilton Beach Manufacturing Company was founded in 1910 and began to produce universal motor-driven appliances, including the now iconic Drink Mixer. Hamilton Beach’s product line expanded to include food mixers, juice extractors, fans, floor polishers, meat grinders, and even jewelers’ motors.

Meanwhile, in 1920, Proctor & Schwartz, Inc. was formed as the new name for Philadelphia Textile Machinery because of a shift towards other products such as thermostatically controlled irons and toasters. Around 1960, Proctor & Schwartz Electric became interested in the Silex Company, a manufacturer of coffee makers and irons. The Proctor and Silex companies merged with great success to offer consumers a wide array of appliances. The company had many firsts like the silent toaster, iron with an attached cord, electric glass coffee maker, and pop-up toaster.

In 1990, two powerhouse appliance manufacturers — Hamilton Beach and Proctor-Silex — came together to create the largest U.S. manufacturer of small kitchen appliances. Today, Hamilton Beach continues to grow with a progressive new image and continued dedication to serving consumers. US Headquarters are based in the suburbs of Richmond, Virginia, currently employing 700+ people globally.

Hamilton Beach expanded internationally in 1995, and continue to produce innovative, award-winning products for consumers in North America and beyond. Brazil, India, and China.

In 2021, Hamilton Beach expanded their reach even further to the UK market with a dedicated UK based team bringing over 100 years of America's No°1 Small Kitchen Appliance brand to the UK consumers.