Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company

Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company

The Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company was a prominent American biscuit and cracker manufacturer that operated from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. Founded in 1902 by Joseph Loose and Joseph Wiles, the company played a significant role in shaping the American biscuit industry.

History

The Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company was established in 1902 when Joseph Loose, a successful businessman, partnered with Joseph Wiles, a skilled baker. The company was initially known as the Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company, but it later changed its name to the Sunshine Biscuit Company in 1913.

Under the leadership of Joseph Loose, the company quickly gained popularity for its high-quality biscuits and crackers. It expanded its product line to include various flavors and types of biscuits, catering to different consumer preferences. The company's commitment to quality and innovation helped it become one of the leading biscuit manufacturers in the United States.

In 1928, the Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company merged with the National Biscuit Company (Nabisco), forming one of the largest biscuit and cracker companies in the world. The merger allowed the company to further expand its product offerings and distribution network.

Products

The Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company was known for its diverse range of biscuits and crackers. Some of its most popular products included:

• Sunshine Hydrox: Introduced in 1908, Hydrox was the company's flagship product. It was a sandwich cookie with a chocolate filling, similar to the more famous Oreo cookie.

• Krispy Crackers: These thin, crispy crackers were a favorite among consumers for their light texture and delicious flavor.

• Hi-Ho Crackers: Hi-Ho Crackers were square-shaped crackers that were often enjoyed with cheese or as a snack on their own.

• Vanilla Wafers: The company produced vanilla wafers that were widely used in various dessert recipes.

Legacy

The Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company played a significant role in shaping the American biscuit industry. Its commitment to quality and innovation set new standards for biscuit manufacturing. The company's products became household names and were enjoyed by millions of Americans.

After the merger with Nabisco, the Sunshine Biscuit Company continued to operate under its own brand name. However, in the 1990s, the Sunshine brand was phased out, and the company became fully integrated into the Nabisco brand.

Today, the legacy of the Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company lives on through the continued success of Nabisco, which remains one of the largest biscuit and cracker manufacturers in the world.

See also

• Nabisco
• Biscuit
• Cracker (food)