This article was originally published on Moneytreestudio.com
Numerous famous companies, like Apple and Starbucks, began as minor U.S. operations before emerging as global dominators. Yet, a strong American origin doesn’t guarantee perpetual ownership by Uncle Sam, indicating the unpredictable nature of business. Iconic American entities such as Ben and Jerry’s, IBM, and Holiday Inn are now under foreign ownership. The crucial interventions of overseas investors have been instrumental in propelling these brands forward, possibly saving some from dissolution.
#1: The Popsicle
Original Headquarters: Oakland, California
Purchased by: Unilever
Country: England
The Popsicle boasts a movie-like origin story, starting as an accidental invention by 11-year-old Francis Epperson in Oakland. This frozen accident became a sensation, launched by Epperson as an adult to worldwide acclaim.
In 1925, Epperson sold his Popsicle rights to Joe Lowe company, a decision he’d lament as turning point in his life. Eventually, the Popsicle brand changed hands, ending up with Good Humor and becoming part of Anglo-Dutch giant Unilever.