Many innovative companies, including Apple and Starbucks, were created in the United States, beginning as tiny operations and eventually becoming international leaders in their professions. However, the world of business is not always as simple as it appears. Regardless of how deeply ingrained a company’s American past is, it does not guarantee that it will always belong to Uncle Sam. Many iconic American brands are no longer owned by Americans. From Ben and Jerry’s to IBM and Holiday Inn, foreign investors have played a significant role in keeping these businesses afloat. Some of them may not have existed if they hadn’t stepped in.
30+ Formerly American Companies
Popsicle
Original Headquarters: Oakland, California
Purchased By: Unilever
Country: England
Popsicle has a fascinating history that rivals Hollywood. Francis Epperson, an 11-year-old Oakland native, devised the recipe after mistakenly leaving a drink outside overnight with a stick in it. When he got back to it the next day, it was a popsicle. As an adult, he introduced the product to the world, and it was an immediate success. Only three years later, in 1925, Epperson surrendered the rights to the Joe Lowe company, a decision he later regretted, saying, “I haven’t been the same since.” Epperson’s rival Good Humor purchased the Popsicle in 1989, but it was already a division of Unilever, making the Oakland-born Popsicle a British-Dutch product.
Popsicle
