105. Caribou Coffee
Headquarters: Brooklyn Center, Minnesota
Bought By: JAB Holding Company
Headquarters: Luxembourg
Born in the heartland of America, Caribou Coffee has been warming the hands and hearts of coffee aficionados since 1992. Originating from Edina, Minnesota, Caribou quickly carved a niche for itself with its premium roasts and inviting lodge-like coffeehouses, distinguishing itself in a bustling market of coffee giants.
Yet, the tapestry of its ownership saw an unexpected weave in 2012 when the brand was acquired by JAB Holding Company, a German conglomerate with a formidable presence in the coffee world. The acquisition, valued at about $340 million, placed Caribou Coffee under the same umbrella as other iconic brands like Peet’s Coffee and Keurig.