WAC Lighting Celebrates 40 Years with Growth, Innovation, and a Fresh Rebrand at LEDucation 2025
EdisonReport’s C-Suite Series welcomes Tom Lillie of WAC and Modern Forms for an engaging conversation on the company’s 40th anniversary, new leadership, and evolving presence in the commercial lighting space.
A Milestone Year
WAC Lighting celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025—an achievement built on decades of dedication and innovation from founders Tony and Tai Wang. While Tony had previously stepped into retirement, he recently returned to a nearly full-time role at the company. “We just can’t get rid of him,” Lillie joked. “He still brings tremendous value.”
The company also recently promoted from within, appointing former CFO Becky Lee as the new President. At the same time, WAC welcomed industry veteran Keith Eagle as Vice President of Business Development. Eagle, formerly of Signify, Genlyte, and Cooper, now oversees all sales channels, including commercial.
Shifting Toward Commercial Growth
Historically known for residential lighting, WAC is making significant moves in the commercial sector. A large portion of its specification business comes from the multi-family market, which straddles both residential and commercial spheres. However, the company is now investing heavily in commercial growth.
A major step in this direction is the formation of WAC’s first-ever Commercial Specification Rep Council, featuring nine reps from key markets across North America. “Nobody knows it all,” said Lillie. “Collaboration is key. We’re listening closely to specifiers, designers, and engineers to ensure we’re developing the right products.”
Modern Forms: Design-Driven and Expanding
Modern Forms, WAC’s design-forward brand, continues to evolve. With influences from international design fairs like Euroluce in Milan, the brand has incorporated unique materials such as **basalt and travertine stone** into new product lines. These materials are featured in wall sconces and pendants that reflect high-end aesthetics.
In 2025 alone, Modern Forms introduced 80 new product families, including large-scale fixtures and elegant fan designs tailored for commercial spaces.
A New Identity: The WAC Lighting Group
With this milestone year, WAC has officially rebranded as The WAC Lighting Group. This new identity unites its family of brands:
– WAC Collection – Architectural, decorative, landscape, and builder-focused products
– Modern Forms – High-style luminaires and smart fans
– Schonbek – Luxury crystal lighting, acquired several years ago
While Lillie didn’t disclose any imminent acquisitions, he hinted that more could be on the horizon in the coming year.
Listening to the Lighting Designers
Lighting designers remain central to WAC’s product development process. “I don’t think we could survive without them,” Lillie shared. Throughout LEDucation, the WAC team collected feedback from specifiers—note cards filled with suggestions that will inform future designs.
LEDucation’s Impact
Despite initial reservations about their booth’s location in the Rhinelander Hall, Lillie acknowledged its unexpected advantages. “We’re right inside the registration doors—it’s been one of our best locations,” he said. “There’s no bad area at this show anymore.”
As WAC Lighting enters its fifth decade, the company is embracing new markets, leadership, and ideas—while staying grounded in the collaborative spirit that helped shape its success.