According to a release from the Kansas Chamber of Commerce, Blish-Mize received the Ad Astra Award during the Chamber’s 2026 Annual Dinner last week. The Chamber says the award recognizes an exceptional commitment to the organization and to advancing a strong business climate in Kansas, citing the company’s long-standing leadership, advocacy, and investment in the state’s future.
Blish Mize, touted as one of the oldest and most successful wholesale hardware distributors of its kind in the nation, began operating in Atchison in 1871, more than 150 years ago.
The Kansas Chamber says the Annual Dinner brought together business and community leaders from across the state to celebrate leadership, service, and Kansas’ business community.
The event, held March 24, also featured keynote remarks from Kansas native Rob Riggle, an actor, comedian and retired U.S. Marine, who, according to the Chamber, spoke about leadership, service, and maintaining perspective, emphasizing community and resilience.
