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From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leader: U.S. Venture Turns 75
17-Mar-2026
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Celebrating their legacy and shaping the next 75 years
Appleton, WI – March 20, 2026 – U.S. Venture, whose vision is to be the very best provider of transportation products, sustainability solutions, and insight driving the world forward, is proud to celebrate its 75th anniversary this year. Originating as a small, family-owned business in Kimberly, Wisconsin, the company has spent the last seven and a half decades growing into a dynamic enterprise, driven by a steadfast commitment to Finding a Better Way.
The history of U.S. Venture is defined by bold imagination and a willingness to take thoughtful risks. Early defining moments included investing in a truckload of tires before securing a place to store them, and traveling to Saudi Arabia during the oil embargo to build pivotal relationships that helped shape the future of the organization. Over the years, the company has explored a diverse range of business lines, from hotels and convenience stores to plumbing, HVAC, equipment installation, and software capabilities. These strategic moves broadened the organization’s perspective and reinforced its core belief in creating value through continuous evolution and learning.
“When I think about my grandfather and his brothers starting this company, I’m reminded that their vision was built on hard work, integrity, and giving back,” shared Eric Kessenich, CEO at U.S. Venture. “Those values still guide us today. This anniversary is a celebration of the people who make U.S. Venture what it is—our team members, partners, and communities.”
The foundation laid by the original founders was built on hard work, integrity, and a profound care for people. Today, that legacy continues through U.S. Venture’s core values of Entrepreneurial Spirit, Caring Relationships, Strategic Foresight, and High Performance. These values guide the company and its five divisions (U.S. Energy®, U.S. AutoForce, Breakthrough®, U.S. Lubricants, and IGEN®) in their daily operations their deep dedication to the communities they serve.
As U.S. Venture honors this historic milestone, the organization reaffirms its commitment to the customers, suppliers, team members, and shareholders who have gotten them to where they are today. The company remains focused on investing in trusted partnerships, prioritizing safety and well-being, and achieving operational excellence. Stepping confidently into the next 75 years, U.S. Venture will continue to use its foundational values as guideposts, pursuing responsible, forward-looking growth with courage, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is right.
About U.S. Venture, Inc.
For 75 years, U.S. Venture, Inc. has been recognized as an innovative leader in the distribution of renewable and traditional energy products, lubricants, tires, parts, and using data-driven insights to manage energy and information in the global movement of goods. U.S. Venture delivers creative, sustainable solutions that give their customers a competitive edge, and enable the company to support the communities in which they live, work, and play. Through the values lived by their family of brands, U.S. Energy® , U.S. AutoForce, Breakthrough®, U.S. Lubricants, and IGEN®, U.S. Venture seeks new ways to drive business success while being steadfast in its commitment to making the world a better place.