Our history
Over 100 years ago, Lassonde was founded as a family business in Rougemont, Quebec. Today, this legacy continues to evolve, remaining true to its roots while firmly rooted in the present.
It all began with one enterprising couple, Aristide Lassonde and his wife, Georgianna Darcy, and their dream of helping local farmers make use of their surplus crops. Over the years, the corporation has made a number of acquisitions, always seeking out companies that align with its values. More than a century later, what started as a Rougemont vegetable cannery has become a North American leader in the development, manufacture and sale of fruit and vegetable juices and drinks.
Nathalie Lassonde, Aristide’s great-granddaughter, and her father, Pierre-Paul Lassonde, serve on the Board of Directors. Together, they are passing on their passion for their work to future generations.
Over a century of history
Aristide Lassonde and Georgianna Darcy open a vegetable cannery in Rougemont, Quebec.
The Lassonde family launches its own brand of canned vegetables. The Rougemont brand is born.
Aristide’s son Willie Lassonde takes over the management of the company.
The first Rougemont brand apple juice is produced in Rougemont, Quebec, with apples from the region.
On Willie Lassonde’s initiative, the company A. Lassonde et fils Inc. is created.
Lassonde achieves its first million dollars in sales.
The first OASIS brand ready-to-drink juices are sold in semi-rigid laminated containers.
Lassonde Industries is incorporated and develops the Clarifruit fruit clarification process.
Three years after discontinuing the production of canned vegetables at its Rougemont plant, Lassonde acquires Produits Ronald Ltd. in St-Damase, which would become Lassonde Specialties.
Lassonde Industries Inc. becomes a public corporation with shares listed on the Montreal Exchange.
Lassonde celebrates its 75th anniversary by introducing its products to the United States and acquiring Orange Maison.
Lassonde acquires rights to use the Allen’s brand.
The Golden Town Apple Products plant in Ontario is added to the list of Lassonde locations.
Pierre-Paul Lassonde takes over the company.
The acquisition of Alfresh Beverages Canada Corp. adds the Fairlee brand and a new plant to the Lassonde portfolio.
A new subsidiary is created in Arista Wines, which produces alcoholic beverages such as wine, apple cider and cider-based drinks.
Lassonde acquires Mondiv Food Products, which would be integrated into the Lassonde Specialties subsidiary.
Lassonde acquires the McCain Foods ready-to-drink juice and beverage plant in Calgary.
Lassonde acquires U.S. subsidiary Clement Pappas & Company, which becomes Lassonde Pappas & Company.
The Arista cidery opens in Rougemont.
Lassonde obtains the rights to use the Del Monte brand in the Canadian fruit juice and beverage sector.
Lassonde acquires U.S. subsidiary Apple & Eve.
Lassonde celebrates its centennial and acquires Old Orchard Brands LLC in Michigan.
Nathalie Lassonde becomes Chief Executive Officer.
Lassonde acquires Sun-Rype Products Ltd., a Canadian manufacturer of fruit-based snacks and juices, as well as its plants in Kelowna, British Columbia, and Washington State.
After a career spanning 34 years, Jean Gattuso announces his retirement, and Lassonde appoints Vincent R. Timpano as President and COO.
Acquisition of Summer Garden, which produces a wide range of premium sauces and condiments. This is the first acquisition of a specialty food company in the United States.
On September 1, 2024, Nathalie Lassonde becomes Executive Vice-President and Co-Chairman of the Board, Pierre-Paul Lassonde continues to serve on the Board as Co-Chairman, and Vince Timpano is appointed Chief Executive Officer.
