The History of the Prize Wheel

What happens when you present a fun challenge to a group of skilled manufacturers? You just might get the perfect Prize Wheel. While PrizeWheel.com is now known for high-quality, fully customizable Prize Wheels, the story began several years before we started selling them in 2005.

The first version was not made for sale at all—it was built in 2002 by the manufacturer as a way to celebrate milestones within their own company. Using spare materials, their technical director created a sturdy, colorful wheel that quickly became a highlight of workplace celebrations. Birthdays, anniversaries, and achievements were marked with a satisfying spin, and the idea soon caught the attention of visitors.


From Celebration to Commercial Product

In 2004, a business associate watched the wheel in action and asked, “Why don’t you manufacture them?” That single question set the wheels—quite literally—in motion. The manufacturer began developing a production-ready Prize Wheel, aiming to create something that was not only visually exciting but also lightweight, durable, and customizable.

The First Prize Wheel

With a trade show just months away, the team moved into high gear. The first mold was commissioned, the initial stands were welded from office chair legs, and engineers worked through the night to prepare the earliest production wheels. By the time the event opened, they had a fully functional Prize Wheel ready to spin. The enthusiastic response confirmed they had something special.


Continuous Innovation and Improvement

The feedback from that first trade show shaped the next steps. The manufacturer refined the designs, partnered with skilled metalworkers to develop the adjustable tripod stand, and streamlined the production process. In 2011, a major redesign improved both the look and performance of the Prize Wheel, giving us the reliable models PrizeWheel.com offers today.

Since then, the manufacturer has continued to innovate. Every improvement has been made with the same goal in mind—ensuring that each spin delivers smooth performance, balanced motion, and plenty of excitement.


How the Prize Wheel Is Made Today

Modern manufacturing begins with sheets of ABS plastic, which are vacuum-formed over one of several precision molds. The formed piece is then routed to remove excess material, ensuring each wheel is perfectly uniform. A clear PETG panel is snapped into place, creating customizable prize slots.

Finally, the wheel is mounted to its stand—whether tabletop or floor model—before undergoing strict quality checks. Balance, durability, and appearance are all tested to meet high standards.


Our Commitment to Service

At PrizeWheel.com, we believe that an exceptional product should be matched by exceptional service. We understand that event deadlines are non-negotiable, and our customers count on us for quick responses, reliable delivery, and helpful guidance.


A Spin for the Future

From a single handmade wheel in 2002 to the nationwide sales we began in 2005, the Prize Wheel has come a long way. We are proud to offer a product built with creativity, craftsmanship, and passion, backed by a team that is committed to making every customer experience a winning one.