Early Life
Jack Link's story begins in the 1880s when his great-grandfather, Chris Link, immigrated from Germany to Wisconsin, bringing his family's sausage recipes. Jack was born in 1946 in Minong, Wisconsin. Growing up, he worked in his family's meat business, learning the trade from a young age.
Rise to Success
The foundation for Jack Link's Protein Snacks was laid in 1985 when the family's meatpacking business had gone bankrupt. While on a hunting trip, Jack Link was struck by the high price of jerky. He realized he could make the product himself using the family's traditional recipes. His son, Troy Link, played a key role in the business. He understood that selling jerky in resealable bags would be effective. The company, founded in 1986, is known for its flagship product, Beef Jerky. Jack Link's became the first brand to sell jerky in resealable bags, which was key in boosting profitability. Today, Jack Link's is the top-selling jerky brand in the United States.
Key Business Strategies
Jack Link's key strategies include: Using his German immigrant great-grandfather's 1880s recipe, marketing its beef sticks with a cheese stick counterpart, and expanding its product line to include a variety of flavors and types of protein-based snacks. The company also acquired European brands such as BIFI and PEPERAMI to expand its consumer base.
Philanthropy
Jack Link has demonstrated support to the communities in which he lives and works. He has served on the board of directors of Spooner Hospital in Spooner, Wis., and has supported Students for Free Enterprise and the Northwood Education Foundation. In 2018, Jack and his wife, Mary Jo, opened the Jack Link's Aquatic and Activity Center.