Iconic brands you may not know were founded in Michigan

By Layla McMurtrie on Fri, Aug 9, 2024 at 1:05 pm

Michigan is the blueprint. With many iconic brands that have left undeniable marks on various industries, our state has long been a hub of innovation and creativity. In areas like pizza, cars, craft beer, music, and more, companies birthed in Michigan have achieved national and even global recognition. Some are obvious, while others may surprise you.

Here are some of the most notable names you might not know hail from Michigan.

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Lee DeVito

Moosejaw

publiclands.com

This outdoorsy brand was founded in Keego Harbor in 1992 and purchased by Dick’s Sporting Goods in 2023, which began closing stores. Recently, the final three Moosejaw stores shuttered for good.

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Carhartt/Yelp

Carhartt

carhartt.com

Founded by Hamilton Carhartt in 1889, this brand has been outfitting hardworking people in Detroit and beyond for over a century. Born in the Motor City, with headquarters in Dearborn and over 30 locations nationwide, Carhartt has become a staple brand for both workwear and streetwear known for durability and style that stand the test of time.

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Courtesy photo

Creem magazine

creem.com

Started in Detroit in 1969, “America’s Only Rock ’n’ Roll Magazine” became a music bible, influencing generations with its eccentric style and deep dives into the scene. Despite its original run ending in 1988, Creem has attempted several comebacks over the years, including major relaunch in 2022 as a coffee table quarterly.

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Photo via Bell's, Facebook

Bell’s Brewery

bellsbeer.com

Founded in Kalamazoo by Larry Bell in 1985, this brewery has had a major influence on the craft beer industry, especially with its hoppy Two Hearted Ale. Bell’s beers are now distributed in over 40 states.

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Michael Jackman

Better Made

bettermade.com

A Detroit staple since 1930, Better Made is the only left of over 20 potato chip companies started in Detroit. The snacks are so delicious that any Detroiter who leaves home misses them and the delicacy is now available in nearly 15 states.

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Linda Parton / Shutterstock.com

General Motors

gm.com

Founded in Flint in 1908, GM has grown into one of the world’s largest automakers with brands like Chevrolet, Buick, and Cadillac.

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Facebook, Domino's

Domino’s

dominos.com

Beginning in Ypsilanti in 1960, Domino’s quickly became a household name. Known for its delivery service and variety of pizzas, Domino’s now operates over 17,000 stores in more than 90 countries, making it one of the largest pizza chains globally.

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Facebook, Belle Tire (Careers)

Belle Tire

belletire.com

In 1922, Belle Tire was founded by Sam Waze with a first location on Grand River Avenue, in Detroit. Sam named the business after his wife, Belle. Since then, the vehicle maintenance and repair shop has continued to keep drivers safe, growing to over 120 locations across the Midwest.

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Facebook, Faygo Beverages

Faygo

faygo.com

A staple Detroit brand, Faygo was started in 1907 by Russian immigrant bakers Ben and Perry Feigenson, who began transforming their frosting flavors into soda. Now, the company is known for its unique options like Redpop and Rock & Rye. While primarily available in the Midwest, Faygo’s cult status has earned it fans across the U.S. and beyond.

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ScannableZebra / Shutterstock.com

Little Caesars

littlecaesars.com

Founded in Detroit in 1959, Little Caesars has become famous for its $5 “Hot-N-Ready” pizzas. The chain’s quick and affordable meals make it a go-to for many. With thousands of locations in 25 countries, Little Caesars is another one of the top pizza chains globally.

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Shutterstock

Chrysler

chrysler.com

This auto company, now known as Stellantis, was originally founded in 1925 by Walter Chrysler. Now, it’s a distant third to the other two automobile companies founded in Detroit – Ford and GM. The only Chrysler-branded model still sold is the Chrysler Pacifica van.

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Founders Brewing Co./Facebook

Founders Brewing Co.

foundersbrewing.com

Founded in Grand Rapids in 1997, Founders Brewing Co. is now one of the country’s most recognized breweries. Founders has a significant presence, with a main brewery in Grand Rapids, a brewhouse, retail space, a beer garden, and more. Founders is distributed in all 50 states and is known for its KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout) and other popular brews.

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Shutterstock

Hungry Howie’s

hungryhowies.com

Apparently, Michigan is a hot spot for the birth of flourishing pizza chains. Hungry Howie’s is another, starting in 1973 in Taylor, known for its flavored crusts, offering a unique twist on classic pizza. With over 550 locations in the United States, Hungry Howie’s continues to grow its national presence.

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Shutterstock

Kellogg’s

kelloggs.com

In 1876, brothers John Harvey and W.K. Kellogg worked together at the Battle Creek Sanitarium, a wellness center which became the birthplace of corn flakes. Although the family disputed the discovery, it's believed that John accidentally created the flaked cereal in 1894 by leaving a batch of wheat-berry dough out overnight. The Kellogg Company was later founded in Battle Creek in 1906 and has since been a leader in breakfast cereals for over a century. From Corn Flakes to Frosted Flakes, Kellogg’s products are now enjoyed in more than 180 countries.

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Google Maps

La-Z-Boy

la-z-boy.com

Since 1927, La-Z-Boy, founded in Monroe, has become a trusted name in furniture, with stores across the U.S., Canada, and beyond.

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Courtesy photo

Jet’s Pizza

jetspizza.com

Starting in Sterling Heights in 1978, Jet’s became famous for its Detroit-style pizza with thick, square slices and a crispy crust. With over 380 locations in 20 states, Jet’s is another Michigan-born major player in the U.S. pizza industry.

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Screengrab via Google Maps

Meijer

meijer.com

Founded in Greenville in 1934, Meijer pioneered the supercenter concept, offering groceries, clothing, and more under one roof. The family-owned chain now operates over 240 stores across the Midwest.

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Facebook

Jiffy Mix

jiffymix.com

Since being founded in Chelsea in 1930, Jiffy Mix has been a staple in American pantries. The company’s convenient mixes, from cornbread to muffins, are sold in all 50 states and several countries.

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Photo via Ford

Ford

ford.com

Henry Ford revolutionized the automotive industry with the introduction of the Model T in 1908 and a novel idea at the time: paying workers enough to buy the products they make. Established in Detroit, Ford continues to be a major automotive company, offering a diverse lineup of cars, trucks, and SUVs.

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Shutterstock

Motown

motownrecords.com

Initially founded in Detroit in 1959 as Tamla Records, Motown Records brought us “The Sound of Young America,” including hot artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, the Supremes, and many more. Its influence on music and culture is immeasurable, making Motown a true Michigan icon. The Motown legacy continues to resonate worldwide, with its artists and music still celebrated across the globe, and it is readying a massive expansion of its Detroit museum.

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