Continental Baking Company

Ward baking company advertisement in 1911, New York City

Continental Baking Company was a prominent American baking company known for its production of popular baked goods. The company was founded in 1921 and became a significant player in the baking industry, particularly noted for its iconic brands such as Wonder Bread and Hostess.

History[edit | edit source]

The Continental Baking Company was established in 1921 by Robert Boyd Ward, who had previously founded the Ward Baking Company. The company quickly expanded its operations and became one of the largest baking companies in the United States. In 1925, Continental Baking Company introduced Wonder Bread, which became one of its most famous products. The bread was known for its soft texture and was one of the first to be sold pre-sliced, a revolutionary concept at the time.

In 1930, the company acquired the Taggart Baking Company, which produced Hostess cakes. This acquisition added popular products like Twinkies and Ho Hos to Continental's portfolio, further solidifying its position in the market.

Products[edit | edit source]

Continental Baking Company was renowned for several key products:

Wonder Bread: Introduced in 1925, this bread became famous for its soft texture and pre-sliced convenience.
Hostess: Acquired in 1930, this brand included popular snack cakes such as Twinkies, Ho Hos, and Ding Dongs.

Acquisitions and Ownership Changes[edit | edit source]

Over the years, Continental Baking Company underwent several ownership changes. In 1968, it was acquired by International Telephone & Telegraph (ITT). Later, in 1984, the company was sold to R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, which merged it with Nabisco Brands. In 1995, the company was sold to Interstate Bakeries Corporation, which later became known as Hostess Brands.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

The legacy of Continental Baking Company lives on through its iconic brands, which continue to be popular among consumers. Wonder Bread and Hostess products remain staples in American households, and the company's innovations in the baking industry have had a lasting impact.