In 1955, Continental Plastics, a small plastic molding company in Oklahoma, entered the foodservice industry by manufacturing the world’s first plastic bain-marie (food storage container). This innovative invention revolutionized traditional methods of food storage and handling.
In 1978, Continental Plastics became a subsidiary of Carlisle Companies. Thirteen years later, Continental Carlisle merged with SiLite Incorporated, a manufacturer with 46 years of experience producing plastic foodservice products, giftware, and decorative accessories, forming Continental/SiLite International (CSI).
In 1994, CSI acquired Sparta Brush Company. The Sparta brand has since been recognized as a leading name in professional-quality brushes for the foodservice and food processing industries. Together, CSI and Sparta offered over 6,000 professional tools.
Reflecting its growth and expansion in the foodservice industry, CSI changed its name in March 1996 to Carlisle FoodService Products. This name established a widely recognized global identity and embodied the company’s vision of delivering a diverse range of products and services tailored to the needs of foodservice operators.
In February 1997, Carlisle FoodService Products acquired the foodservice assets of Plastics Manufacturing Company (PMC), a historic American melamine manufacturer and the first company to introduce melamine compartment trays. PMC’s Texas-Ware® dinnerware remains highly regarded among collectors of 20th-century tableware. With the addition of PMC’s product line, Carlisle became the largest U.S.-based commercial melamine dinnerware manufacturer.
In December 1999, following the acquisition of Marko International, Carlisle added a range of vinyl and fabric table covers and accessories to its portfolio. In April 2000, Dura-Ware Company of America joined Carlisle FoodService Products. For over 50 years, Dura-Ware had been a trusted manufacturer of industrial-strength cookware and stylish buffetware.
In January 2001, Toppo Manufacturing’s pumps, dispensers, and organizers were added to Carlisle’s product offerings. In January 2008, Carlisle acquired Dinex to strengthen its position in the healthcare market. Since joining Carlisle, Dinex has introduced numerous functional and innovative products over the past 30 years, including the TQ Quiet Cart and Fenwick Insulated Ware.
In early 2017, Carlisle acquired San Jamar, adding innovative solutions in food safety, counter service, personal safety, and restroom products to its lineup. In 2018, Carlisle FoodService Products was acquired by Jordan Company in New York, returning to private ownership.
In October 2018, the leaders of Carlisle FoodService Products established CFS Brands, a new parent company encompassing leading names in foodservice, healthcare, and sanitation. Today, CFS Brands serves as a platform that provides the market with a broad range of products, services, and leadership.
