Whip Mix Gypsum Supply Is Secure
Updated
USG Gypsum Mine Closing
In July 2026, USG announced it will close its Southard, Oklahoma gypsum mine and plant in November 2026. Southard has been a major source of the specialty gypsum used across the dental industry, and the news has raised questions among dealers, labs and clinicians about product availability.
Whip Mix has secured alternative gypsum supply and does not anticipate any disruption to Whip Mix product availability. We have taken the steps needed to maintain a reliable supply of the raw materials required to manufacture our gypsum products.
What Whip Mix customers should expect
Whip Mix has been formulating and manufacturing dental gypsum in Louisville, Kentucky for more than 100 years. During this time, we've built long-standing relationships across both the dental industry and the gypsum industry. When the Southard announcement came, those relationships are what allowed us to move quickly and secure supply well ahead of the closure.
Reliable supply. Whip Mix customers should continue to receive their products without interruption.
No need to stock up. Customers do not need to increase inventory or place emergency orders because of the USG closure.
A slight color shift. As we transition between gypsum sources, most Whip Mix gypsum products will take on a slightly softer, more muted shade, most noticeable after the material has set. This is a characteristic of the raw material and does not affect the intended performance of the product. Our formulations have been adjusted and evaluated to continue meeting Whip Mix's performance requirements.
No price increase due to the supply change. Whip Mix has secured alternative gypsum supply and will absorb the impact of this transition. There will be no special price increase to our customers as a result of the USG mine closure.
Our Commitment
For more than a century, Whip Mix has been committed to providing high-quality dental products and dependable service to the dental industry. We have taken the steps needed to protect our supply chain so our customers can keep doing what they do best: serving patients and running their businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the USG Southard closure going to affect Whip Mix?
Whip Mix has secured alternative gypsum supply and does not anticipate any disruption to our customers' supply of Whip Mix products.
Will Whip Mix have enough gypsum?
Yes. We have taken the steps needed to secure the raw materials required to maintain our normal production and supply.
Should I stock up on Whip Mix gypsum?
No. You do not need to place additional orders or build inventory because of the changes in the gypsum market.
Will Whip Mix products look different?
Most products will show a slight color shift, a slightly softer, more muted shade, as we transition between gypsum sources. It's a characteristic of the raw material and does not indicate a problem with the product.
Does the color shift affect performance?
No. The color shift does not affect the intended performance of the product.
Are Whip Mix formulations changing?
Our formulations have been adjusted and evaluated to ensure they continue to meet Whip Mix's performance requirements.
Will prices go up because of this?
There will be no special or incremental price increases based on this disruption.
Which products are affected?
The transition applies across our gypsum line.
Who do I contact with questions?
Your Territory Sales Representative, or Whip Mix Customer Service at 800-626-5651 or 502-637-1451.