Partnership delivers high-performance cleaning solutions while expanding employment opportunities for Americans who are blind
St. Louis, MO — February 19, 2026 — Lighthouse for the Blind–St. Louis (LHB) and Hillyard Industries have partnered to introduce a new generation of SKILCRAFT® floor-care products to the AbilityOne® Program. The collaboration combines Hillyard’s industry-leading cleaning technology with LHB’s mission-driven manufacturing to deliver high-performance solutions that support meaningful employment for people who are blind.
Founded in 1907 in St. Joseph, Missouri, Hillyard Industries has a long history of innovation, beginning with the invention of the world’s first gym-floor finish. Today, the family-owned company supports customers nationwide with advanced chemistry, hands-on training, and a network of 26 distribution centers and nearly 200 sales representatives across the United States.
Established in 1933, Lighthouse for the Blind–St. Louis is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing employment and independence for individuals who are blind. LHB manufactures, assembles, packages, and distributes a wide range of SKILCRAFT and AbilityOne products—including cleaning chemicals, aerosols, and first-aid kits—at its facilities in St. Louis and Berkeley, Missouri.
When the AbilityOne Program sought to modernize its floor-care offerings, the organizations’ strengths aligned naturally. The result is the new SKILCRAFT Hillyard Floor Care Line—high-performance strippers, finishes, and cleaners filled and packaged by employees who are blind at LHB’s St. Louis facility.
The partnership began with a soft launch on October 1, 2025, for AbilityOne distributors. The full national rollout through National Industries for the Blind (NIB) took effect January 1, 2026, with products available for immediate ordering through AbilityOne distribution channels. The updated line maintains existing National Stock Numbers (NSNs) to ensure continuity for government customers while delivering modern formulations and enhanced performance.
The SKILCRAFT Hillyard lineup includes:
- Devastator Floor Stripper
- Power Strip Heavy-Duty Floor Stripper
- North Star Floor Finish
- Endeavour Floor Finish
- Explorer Floor Finish
- Hil-Glo Floor Restorer/Spray Buff
- Green Select® Degreaser Cleaner (Green Seal® Certified)
Although new to the AbilityOne Program, Hillyard has fully embraced the partnership. Its nationwide sales team is actively introducing customers to SKILCRAFT products and increasing awareness of AbilityOne’s mission.
“This is a partnership that truly shines,” said Eric Warnhoff, President and CEO of Lighthouse for the Blind–St. Louis. “Hillyard’s team has shown incredible energy and dedication to learning about AbilityOne. Their support helps us grow employment opportunities and expand our mission.”
“Our shared values make this more than a product collaboration—it’s a partnership grounded in service, integrity, and opportunity,” said Blake Roth, Chief Manufacturing Officer for Hillyard Industries.
To support customers, Hillyard’s Technical Service Team will provide training, product guidance, and technical assistance to SKILCRAFT Hillyard end-users nationwide.
Every purchase of SKILCRAFT Hillyard products helps create meaningful jobs and independence for Americans who are blind. The collaboration highlights the power of the AbilityOne Program—bringing together private-sector innovation and nonprofit mission to create lasting opportunity.
About Lighthouse for the Blind–St. Louis
Lighthouse for the Blind–St. Louis is a nonprofit organization that provides employment, training, and support services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Through its manufacturing operations and social enterprise programs, LHB helps people build independence and long-term career success. Learn more at www.lhbindustries.com.
About Hillyard Industries
Founded in 1907, Hillyard Industries is a family-owned manufacturer and distributor of cleaning and facility care solutions. The company provides innovative products, expert training, and nationwide service to help customers maintain clean, safe, and healthy environments. Learn more at www.hillyard.com.