In Business Magazine Recognizes Jones Dairy Farm

Jones Dairy Farm proudly accepts recognition as a leader in family business.

In Business Madison celebrated the region’s exemplary organizations and influential executives during its second annual Business of the Year Awards, held on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, at The Edgewater Hotel. Jones Dairy Farm was honored to receive the Family Business of the Year Award, a distinction that highlights the achievements of family-owned businesses making significant contributions to the Greater Madison area.

In accepting the award in front an audience of over 300, Jones Dairy Farm Chairman and CEO Philip Jones said, “This award reflects our commitment to family values and the incredible work of our employees. We are deeply proud of our roots in Fort Atkinson and are committed to continuing to support and uplift the community that has supported us for generations.”

A Legacy Seven Generations Strong

The Jones family has been an integral part of Wisconsin’s history for many generations. It all began in the late 1830s when settler Milo Jones established the family farm, even before Wisconsin achieved statehood. Milo’s pioneering efforts in producing and selling cheese and butter laid the foundation for what would become a storied legacy.

In the late 1880s, Milo’s son, Milo Cornelius Jones, pivoted the family’s operations to pork sausage production after rheumatoid arthritis prevented him from continuing his civil engineering career. This pivotal decision shaped the family’s future and established Jones Dairy Farm as a household name.

Today, the company continues to thrive under the leadership of sixth-generation family member Philip Jones. With seventh-generation family members already contributing, the future of the Jones legacy looks bright.

A Commitment to Community and Quality

Jones Dairy Farm’s contributions to Wisconsin extend beyond its meat products. The company has a long-standing tradition of supporting local communities through philanthropic initiatives and capital investments that aim to enhance the lives of Wisconsin residents.

The company’s products are widely available throughout Wisconsin at grocers like Woodman’s, Piggly Wiggly, Sendik’s, and Festival Foods. Jones products also serve the foodservice sector, with offerings found at establishments such as Kwik Trip, Original Pancake House, and Fireside Dinner Theater. Nationally, Jones products are sold at nearly all grocery stores, including Walmart and Costco, and internationally, they reach consumers in nearly 20 countries.

In 2015, Jones Dairy Farm opened the Jones Market, transforming a century-old manufacturing plant into a 2,600-square-foot destination featuring Wisconsin-made cheeses, bakery items, and the company’s own products. The Market draws over 130 bus tours annually, along with countless visitors from across the state.

Recognizing Excellence

The Family Business of the Year Award was determined by an independent panel of judges, including Scott Ducke (Lake Ridge Bank), Rebecca Prochaska (Potter Lawson), and Maiken Westphal (Westphal & Co.). Their selection underscores the value of Jones Dairy Farm’s rich history, community impact, and dedication to quality.

For more information about the award and the other honorees, visit In Business Madison.

Learn more about the Jones family and company history here.