11 Household Brands That Quietly Changed Owners
These iconic names stayed in your pantry or garage while switching hands behind the scenes.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
Many beloved brands have gone through major ownership changes without much fanfare. While the logos and products remained familiar, the companies behind them changed dramatically. Here are 11 recognizable brands that were quietly sold to new owners — some you’d never expect.
1. Burt’s Bees
WestportWiki on Wikimedia Commons
Once a niche natural brand, Burt’s Bees started as a roadside operation in Maine. In 2007, it was acquired by Clorox for nearly $1 billion.
2. Annie’s Homegrown
Mike Mozart on Flickr
Famous for its organic mac and cheese, Annie’s was a favorite among health-conscious families. General Mills bought the brand in 2014 for $820 million.
3. Ben & Jerry’s
WhisperToMe on WIkimedia Commons
Despite its counter-culture vibes and social activism, Ben & Jerry’s was sold to Unilever in 2000. The brand maintained its voice, but it’s been owned by a multinational ever since.
4. Tom’s of Maine
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This natural personal care brand was started by a couple looking for chemical-free alternatives. Colgate-Palmolive acquired a controlling stake in 2006.
5. Hellmann’s Mayonnaise
Lopatalopez on Wikimedia Commons
Long known for its blue-ribbon jar and household name status, Hellmann’s was originally independent. Today, it’s owned by Unilever, which has quietly consolidated many food brands.
6. Stonyfield Farm
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This organic yogurt pioneer had grassroots origins on a New Hampshire farm. It’s been passed between several major owners, including Groupe Danone and Lactalis.
7. Seventh Generation
ajay_suresh on Wikimedia Commons
Known for its eco-friendly cleaning products, this Vermont-based brand had a loyal green-minded following. In 2016, Unilever bought it, adding to its growing portfolio of sustainable-sounding names.
8. Green Giant
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Once a Midwestern icon of canned and frozen veggies, Green Giant has had several corporate parents. In 2015, General Mills sold it to B&G Foods.
9. Mrs. Butterworth’s
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This syrup brand, known for its iconic bottle shape, was once a standalone product. It’s now owned by Conagra Brands, along with dozens of other pantry staples.
10. Häagen-Dazs (U.S. Operations)
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Despite its European-sounding name, Häagen-Dazs was created in the Bronx. The U.S. operations were once managed by Nestlé and then sold to Froneri in a joint venture.
11. Earth’s Best
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This organic baby food brand built its reputation on health-conscious parents. It’s now under Hain Celestial Group, a large natural foods corporation.