The Year was 1945
In 1945, Ralph F. and Alice Stayer opened a butcher shop and named it after their quaint hometown – Johnsonville, Wisconsin. The delicious sausage made in the Stayer’s butcher shop came from an old family recipe, which made its way down the family tree from 19th-century Austria. This recipe became known as the sausage with the BIG TASTE, and a legacy was born!
During the 1950s
During the 1950s, the Stayers answered the high demand for Johnsonville Sausage and expanded into nearby communities. In 1970, trucks took to the road and began delivering the BIG TASTE of Johnsonville Sausage to stores throughout Wisconsin.
In 1978
In 1978, Ralph C. Stayer, son of Ralph F. and Alice Stayer, became president of the company and launched an expansion by selling Johnsonville’s products outside Wisconsin. At the same time, a second plant was built and Johnsonville began airing television commercials.
During the Mid 1980s
During the mid-1980s, a direct sales force was launched, sales increased 20-fold from a decade earlier and distribution expanded to 47 states.
Today
Today, Johnsonville is the most popular brand of sausage in the United States and is available in 40 additional countries. The company remains privately owned.
Our Products
Johnsonville is the No. 1 brand of sausage in America. Our award-winning product lines include: Brats, Italian, Smoked, Breakfast, and Snack.
More information about Johnsonville products and recipes featuring the products can be found at www.johnsonville.com.
Company Information
Johnsonville has approximately 1,600 employees – referred to within the company as “members.” Each member takes ownership of product quality to ensure the excellence and “Big Flavor” of Johnsonville Sausage.
Johnsonville is headquartered in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin. Johnsonville products are now available in all 50 states and in 40 additional countries, including Japan, France, Mexico and Canada.