About Us
Vi-Jon’s product solutions stem from our experience, our roots as an industry innovator and our commitment to sustainability.
After a century of operation, Vi-Jon intuitively understands consumers and your customers’ shifting needs. Every process—from product design to delivery—is created with them in mind.
Our History
Founding and Early Days
1908-1942
Vi-Jon is founded in 1908 by John and Viola Burgess Brunner as the Peroxide Specialty Company.
After a brief detour to Cincinnati, they brought the company home to St. Louis in 1912. It has been an institution in the city ever since. In 1933, the company expanded its operation and changed its name to Vi-Jon Laboratories, a combination of the Brunners’ names.
The new name also inspired a new logo (violets and jonquils) found on the first successful line of cosmetics. By 1942, Vi-Jon’s sales exceed $1.1 million, with a company roster of 70 people.
Expansion and Private Brand Leaders
1960-1984
In the 1960s, Woolworth’s starts stocking private brand products. Other national chains start to follow suit.
Vi-Jon sees an opportunity in the market. Over the next decade, Vi-Jon diversifies its products. Instead of producing a single batch of Vi-Jon labeled product, the company produces 50 different batches.
They’re labeled for a variety of retail chains. By 1979, Vi-Jon employs around 100 people and sales hit $5.5 million.
Fast forward to 1984. Vi-Jon is rising to the top of the private brand industry, becoming the largest private brand producer of mouthwash, with nail polish remover and petroleum jelly close behind.
Continued Expansion and Germ-X
1992-2006
In 1992, Vi-Jon purchases a new plant on Page Avenue in St. Louis. Shortly afterward, a compounding section is added, executive offices are moved from the original plant and six production lines are running.
Two years later, Vi-Jon purchases Hunt Products, a private brand manufacturer. The company also starts manufacturing antibacterial soap — the precursor to Germ-X.
In 1997, Germ-X officially debuts. Moving into the next decade, Vi-Jon merges with another storied manufacturer, Tennessee-based Cumberland-Swan, doubling the size of the company.
A Century of Innovation
2008-2012
Vi-Jon celebrates 100 years of business in 2008. During that time, it has grown to five manufacturing and distribution centers in St. Louis and Smyrna, Tennessee. The following year, John G. Brunner, the third generation to run the family business, retires as CEO.
In 2011, Gerald “Jerry” Bowe takes over as Vi-Jon Chairman and CEO. Soon after Bowe takes the reins, an efficient state-of-the-art million-gallon wastewater treatment plant at the Smyrna facility is completed.
The Present
2024-Today
In 2024, Vi-Jon announced a strategic reorganization of its business designed to establish clear focus and expectations, empower its dedicated employee-owners, and position the company for continued success and expansion.
Moving forward, Vi-Jon is the provider of private brand dry goods, bath, and personal care products including Epsom salts and baby powders.
Today, the focus on innovation and success are still present as the company produces high quality private brand dry goods for major retailers.
