InSinkErator Celebrates 80th anniversary

The world’s first food waste disposer was invented in 1927 by American architect John W. Hammes, who was based just a few miles from the current InSinkErator® world headquarters in Racine, Wisconsin. John W. Hammes originally invented the food waste disposer to help dispose of vegetable peelings hygienically and instantly. 

It was in 1938 that InSinkErator® was incorporated as a company. To celebrate the 80th anniversary, InSinkErator® is embarking on a year-long celebration that kicked off in July 2018 with an Independence Day parade float; followed by an employee appreciation celebration; while the opening of the company’s new world headquarters took place in November 2018. 

InSinkErator 80th Anniversary video


The new Emerson headquarters in Racine houses over 175 engineers and benefits from a number of developments from workflow improvements to enhanced research facilities. This will continue the drive for innovative and creative technologies designed to help homeowners significantly reduce the amount of food waste, saving it from landfill. 

Today, an InSinkErator® food waste disposer is a modern kitchen appliance offering an easy, safe and practical solution to managing food waste in the home and an ideal alternative for diverting food waste from ending up in landfill. According to WRAP1, over seven million tonnes of food and drink are wasted every year in the UK, resulting in a huge strain on landfill sites.

Anne Kaarlela, Marketing Communications Manager, Europe and Russia InSinkErator®, says: “We are incredibly proud of our heritage and provenance. The company’s 80 years are heralded by the fact that InSinkErator® is a noun, as food waste disposers are called InSinkErators in the USA, a great accolade indeed.  

“The company’s range of food waste disposers are designed for every kitchen, whether big or small, modern or more traditional in design, all of which utilise the same technology, quality parts and American craftsmanship that InSinkErator® has built its company and reputation on for the past 80 years. 

“We are extremely proud to be part of the continued success of Emerson. The new headquarters and expansion of the Racine plant is a tremendous investment and demonstrates a high level of confidence in the markets around the world. This is excellent news for our trade partners and customers and cements our future with new and exciting innovations.
“We are active campaigners in encouraging the disposal of food waste sustainably, and are committed to providing lifestyle enhancing solutions, while reducing the impact of food waste on landfill sites.”

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