The Jel Sert Company

The Jel Sert Company, established in 1926, is a family-owned business headquartered in West Chicago, Illinois. Over nearly a century, it has become a leading manufacturer of drink mixes, dessert mixes, and frozen novelties.

The company's diverse product portfolio includes both owned and licensed brands, such as Wyler's, Otter Pops, Dad's, Flavor-Aid, Hi-C, Jolly Rancher, Juicy Juice, Kool Pops, Margaritaville, My*T*Fine, Pop-Ice, Powerade, Skittles, Sonic, Starburst, Sunkist, Super C, Tampico, Warheads, and Welch’s.

Company History and Growth

Jel Sert's journey began with the creation of a gelatin dessert mix named "Jel Sert," combining the words "jelly" and "dessert."

In 1929, the company expanded by introducing Flavor-Aid, a powdered drink mix. The 1960s marked significant growth with acquiring Pop-Ice, a freeze-at-home pop, and launching Fla-Vor-Ice, a leading freezer pop brand in the U.S.

The 1990s brought Otter Pops, popular on the West Coast, while the 2000s added brands like Wyler's powdered beverage mixes and Royal and My*T*Fine puddings and pie fillings.

Recent Innovations and Partnerships

In recent years, Jel Sert has innovated and expanded its product lines, acquiring Super C, Pure Kick, and Zoic in 2012 and All Sport in 2020.

The company partnered with Coca-Cola to launch Powerade freezer pops nationally and collaborated with Mars to market Milky Way- and Snickers-flavored pudding and pie mixes.

Community Involvement and Sustainability

Beyond its products, Jel Sert supports organizations like the American Childhood Cancer Organization and the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. It also engages in local projects in West Chicago.

Environmental initiatives include adopting sustainable practices and maintaining a honeybee community to promote ecological health.

Location and Operations

The Jel Sert Company operates primarily from its manufacturing headquarters in West Chicago, Illinois.

Main operations remain centered here as the company continues to expand its product lines and partnerships.

Locations:

• West Chicago, IL, USA – manufacturing headquarters and main operational center.