Chicago-based private equity firm Willis Stein has announced that is has completed its acquisition of the Jays Foods assets.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


Jays, whose brands include Jays Potato Chips, O-Ke-Doke popcorn and Krunchers, also makes pretzels, tortilla chips and other snack foods under the Jays trademark. 


Willis Stein previously announced that Tim Healy would head the new company and that Jays’ Chicago manufacturing operations and employees will be retained.


“The closing of this transaction is concurrent with Jays’ emergence from the bankruptcy process,” Willis Stein said.


Willis Stein also owns popcorn maker Lincoln Snacks, whose brands include Poppycock, Just the Nuts! and Screaming Yellow Zonkers.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now