JonnyPops Named 2025 Food Manufacturer of the Year by Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal
Minnesota-based frozen treat company honored for innovation, rapid growth, and a culture of kindness
Elk River, MN – JonnyPops, a Minnesota-based manufacturer of wholesome frozen treats, has been named 2025 Food Manufacturer of the Year by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal. This prestigious recognition highlights the company’s exceptional growth, commitment to innovation, and its unique mission to spread kindness through every pop.
Founded in 2012 by St. Olaf College students Erik Brust and Connor Wray, JonnyPops began with a simple vision: create a better-for-you frozen treat using real ingredients—and add a heartfelt message on every stick. Today, JonnyPops products are available in over 30,000 locations nationwide, and the company has sustained double-digit revenue growth for over a decade.
Among the messages printed on every pop stick are reminders like, “Teach someone a new skill,” and “Make someone feel special.” These messages represent the company’s core belief that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
“In everything we do, we lead with care,” said CEO Erik Brust. “We care more than anyone else—about our people, our products, and our mission.”
Growth Fueled by Quality and Innovation
Operating out of an 80,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Elk River, JonnyPops crafts its treats with simple ingredients and no artificial dyes. By producing 90% of products in-house, the company ensures quality control and maintains its commitment to excellence.
In early 2025, JonnyPops expanded again, tripling its footprint with the acquisition of a 160,000-square-foot Innovation Center in Plymouth, where it will focus on developing new products, new formats, and expanding the popsicle category itself.
“We’re not just innovating new flavors—we’re reinventing what frozen treats can be,” said Brust. “The best of JonnyPops is still to come.”
Recent product launches include Birthday Surprise Minis with Cream, which feature a smooth white outer layer and a colorful surprise inside—showcasing the brand’s playful creativity.
People-First Culture Drives Success
Over the last three years, JonnyPops has increased its team size by more than 300%, now employing over 145 people in Minnesota. Brust attributes the company’s growth to investing in people first: “As the people grow, the company grows.”
About JonnyPops
Headquarters: Elk River, MN
Co-Founders: Erik Brust and Connor Wray
Founded: 2012
Employees: 145+
Business: Manufacturer of frozen ice cream treats
Website: www.jonnypops.com
