Wausau, WI — Graphic House, Inc. is proud to celebrate 50 years of business in 2026, marking a milestone that began with one sign installer, a basement workshop, and a belief that signage should be done better.

Founded in 1976 by H. Bren Hartinger, Graphic House started as a small, home-based sign shop in Wausau, Wisconsin. Before launching the company, Hartinger worked as a sign installer, where his curiosity grew beyond installation and into the art, design, and intent behind signage. That curiosity led him to the Chicago Institute of Lettering and Design and eventually to a career in sign painting — the foundation of what would become an industry-leading custom sign company.

Today, Graphic House has grown into a nationally recognized signage partner with multiple locations across Wisconsin, serving both local businesses and national accounts. The company provides comprehensive signage solutions including custom design, engineering, fabrication, installation, and ongoing service.

“Our clients trust us with their brands,” said Bren Hartinger, CEO and Founder. “We work closely with business owners, architects, designers, and general contractors to ensure every project is delivered on time, on budget, and beyond expectations.”

That commitment is shared by Hartinger’s wife, Beth Hartinger, Chairwoman and CFO, and the dedicated team behind Graphic House. When asked what has been most rewarding over the past five decades, the answer is simple, “Seeing a client’s vision come to life — and often exceeded.”

Over the years, Graphic House has evolved alongside the signage industry. What once required hand-drawn layouts, painted renderings, and neon lighting has transformed through advances in technology. Today’s process blends years of combined skilled craftsmanship with precision machinery, 3D design tools, and modern lighting solutions like LEDs — all while maintaining the attention to detail that has defined Graphic House since day one.

In 2024, Graphic House further expanded its legacy by acquiring the intellectual property of the Poblocki Sign Company, allowing the team to continue serving many long-standing Poblocki clients while introducing expanded capabilities and services.

“We don’t see signage as a commodity,” Hartinger said. “Every sign is a custom piece — part art, part engineering, and part experience. Our goal is that when a sign is installed, the client remembers not just the final product, but how seamless and enjoyable the process was.”

As Graphic House celebrates 50 years, the company remains focused on the future — continuing to innovate, adapt, and deliver signage solutions that help brands stand out for decades to come.