Our Story
Over 100 years of innovation, passion, and family tradition.
Barnard Sales Co.
William Grover Barnard — affectionately known as "Papa Barnard" — founds the Barnard Sales Company and captivates customers with live product demonstrations. His early success with the "Polly" can opener lays the groundwork for what would become Vitamix.
Natural Foods Institute
Papa Barnard renames the company — a clear commitment to whole food nutrition. At the Great Lakes Exposition, he and his son Bill discover their passion for blending.
The First Storefront
Papa Barnard and Bill open the first Natural Foods Institute store at 807 Saint Clair Avenue in Cleveland — with health products, expert talks, and live Vitamix demonstrations.
World Headquarters Established
The company moves to Olmsted Township, Ohio. Bill Barnard constructs a first building of approximately 100 m² — the origin of today's global headquarters.
Ruth's Recipes
Ruth Barnard develops nutrient-rich recipes for "500 Recipes for Vita-Mix." Her creations make one thing clear: Vitamix is more than a blender — it is a complete nutrition system.
The World's First Infomercial
Bill Barnard books a half-hour infomercial on WEWS in Cleveland. The goal: 18 sales to cover costs. The result: over 400 machines sold in a single evening.
The Second Generation Takes the Lead
Papa Barnard retires. Bill and Ruth take over and travel across the country to demonstrate Vitamix and spread the message of whole food nutrition throughout America.
The Third Generation Takes the Lead
Grover Barnard joins the company and dedicates himself fully to advancing Vitamix machines. In 1966, the company is officially renamed Vitamix Corporation.
John Barnard Takes the Lead
John Barnard returns to the company as chief engineer. He redesigns products to meet international standards, laying the groundwork for global expansion.
Retail Expansion
Vitamix expands its retail partnerships — starting with Costco. Live in-store demonstrations bring the Vitamix experience to consumers across America.
The Fourth Generation Takes the Lead
Jodi Berg becomes President, then CEO one year later. Under her leadership, Vitamix expands into over 80 countries and receives multiple awards for outstanding export performance.
1 Million Machines
Vitamix opens an approximately 16,000 m² operations center in Strongsville, Ohio — and for the first time manufactures over one million machines in a single year.
Setting the Course for the Next Century
Amid global challenges, Vitamix demonstrates resilience and strength. Clear values and a commitment to quality position the company for the next century.
Vitamix Turns 100
After a century, four generations, and sales in 130 countries, Vitamix celebrates its 100th anniversary — and remains committed to improving lives through whole food nutrition.
First Non-Family CEO in Company History
Steve Laserson is appointed as the first non-family CEO in Vitamix history — a new chapter that consistently continues the company's decades-long commitment to quality and innovation.