Mt. Olive Pickles is a highly successful pickle company, but do you know their history? Do you know how they got their start?
Mt. Olive Pickles has a long history in the pickle business, we will cover their history, products, innovations and where they are today.
History of Mt. Olive Pickle Company
How did they get their start? Mt. Olive Pickle Company was established in 1926 in Mount Olive, North Carolina. The company’s founding was driven by Shikrey Baddour, a Lebanese immigrant, and local entrepreneur George Moore. Originally, the plan was to brine cucumbers for resale to other pickling companies, but when that proved challenging, local businesspeople decided to establish a pickle company to produce, pack, and market their own pickles. The town’s name inspired the brand, helping establish a strong local identity that endures today.
How long have they been in business? Mt. Olive has been in business for nearly 100 years, becoming one of the oldest and most trusted pickle brands in the U.S.
Who owns the company? Mt. Olive is privately owned, with shares held among descendants of the original investors and the company’s employees, fostering a strong sense of community and loyalty within the organization.
Are they publicly traded? No, Mt. Olive Pickle Company remains privately held and is not publicly traded.
Information about Their Products
What products do they make? Mt. Olive offers an extensive range of pickled products, including traditional Dill Pickles, Bread & Butter Chips, Kosher Dill Spears, Sweet Gherkins, and pickled peppers. They also produce various types of relishes and pickled vegetables to cater to diverse customer preferences.
What is their most popular product? The Kosher Dill pickle is among Mt. Olive’s most popular products, known for its classic flavor profile and widespread appeal in households across the U.S.
What makes them unique? Mt. Olive stands out for its dedication to quality and innovation. They were the first to introduce No Sugar Added sweet pickles in 2002, using SPLENDA® for consumers seeking sugar-free options. Additionally, their introduction of picklePAK™ single-serve cups in 2007 was an industry innovation, offering convenient, portable pickle snacks.
Are they expensive compared to their competition? Mt. Olive products are typically priced competitively within the mid-range category, making them an affordable option without sacrificing quality, a factor that has contributed to their popularity in the U.S.
Do they sell their products internationally? While primarily a U.S.-focused brand, Mt. Olive products are available in select international markets. They’ve also partnered with restaurant chains like Five Guys, which distribute their pickles internationally.
Where do they source their cucumbers? Mt. Olive sources cucumbers from multiple locations to maintain quality and consistency, including farms in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Greece, and India. This diverse sourcing network ensures a steady supply throughout the year.
Innovations in the Pickle Industry
How have they innovated in the pickle arena?
Controlled Fermentation Research: In the 1970s, Mt. Olive collaborated with the USDA on controlled fermentation techniques, enhancing the quality and consistency of their products.
High Fructose Corn Syrup Integration: In 1969, they became one of the first to use high fructose corn syrup in pickling, a trend that later became an industry standard.
No Sugar Added Pickles: With health-conscious consumers in mind, they introduced No Sugar Added pickles sweetened with SPLENDA® in 2002.
PicklePAK™ Cups: Launched in 2007, the PicklePAK™ line brought pickles into the snack food arena, offering portable, single-serve cups that cater to on-the-go consumers.
Expansive Product Range: Over the years, they have continually expanded their product range, from classics like Dill pickles to specialty relishes, sweet gherkins, and more. This adaptability has allowed them to cater to a wide range of consumer preferences while staying relevant in an evolving market.
The Company Today
What do they sell besides pickles? Besides pickles, Mt. Olive produces various relishes and pickled peppers, expanding their portfolio to meet different consumer tastes and condiment needs.
How much have they achieved in sales? While Mt. Olive does not publicly disclose exact sales figures, they are recognized as the best-selling brand of pickles, peppers, and relishes in U.S. grocery stores, reflecting their significant market presence and consumer loyalty.
Who is the CEO of the company? Bobby Frye serves as President and CEO of Mt. Olive, leading the company since a reorganization in 2015. He oversees the brand’s strategic growth and ongoing operations.
How much is the company worth? As a privately owned entity, Mt. Olive’s valuation is not publicly available, but its dominant position in the U.S. pickle market indicates strong financial stability and significant market value.
Where in the world are their products sold? Mt. Olive products are widely available throughout the United States and can be found internationally in select markets, primarily through retailers that carry American brands or through partnerships with global restaurant chains.
