In
1954 television’s popularity was sweeping the nation and
freezers were also becoming common in many households. Gerry
Thomas, a sales representative for C.A. Swanson & Sons,
proposed launching a frozen dinner that would take advantage
of these trends - and help reduce a surplus of Thanksgiving
turkeys the Company had on hand. Gilbert and Clarke Swanson
agreed to the idea and in 1954 Swanson, the original “TV
Dinner” went into full production and sold 12 million cartons.
But that is just the beginning of the story as the evolution
of Swanson® has spanned several decades.
In 1970, a line of Swanson breakfasts was introduced after a
gala unveiling by renowned cook Julia Child, on the rooftop of
the St. Regis Hotel in New York City the prior year.
Microwaveable packaging was introduced in 1987, signaling the
dawn of a new era in TV Dinners. The original Swanson aluminum
tray takes its rightful place of honor at the Smithsonian
Institute. Swanson celebrated its 45th anniversary and was
recognized as one of America’s most popular brands in 1999.
Product Description
Swanson was re-launched as Swanson Classics,
the “Original TV Dinner” in January of 2007. Swanson Classics
continues to meet the needs of today’s busy life styles by
offering a wide variety of great tasting meals that are ideal
for many occasions. Varieties include all the original
favorites such as Roasted Carved Turkey, Classic Fried
Chicken, and Salisbury Steak, plus our newest dinner, Macaroni
& Cheese.
Today, Swanson continues its long and proud tradition of
offering great-tasting meals for an outstanding value. So next
time you are in your local supermarket be sure to pick up
Swanson, the Original TV Dinner.
Swanson Classics, Comfort Food Then, Comfort Food Now
In
1954 television’s popularity was sweeping the nation and
freezers were also becoming common in many households. Gerry
Thomas, a sales representative for C.A. Swanson & Sons,
proposed launching a frozen dinner that would take advantage
of these trends - and help reduce a surplus of Thanksgiving
turkeys the Company had on hand. Gilbert and Clarke Swanson
agreed to the idea and in 1954 Swanson, the original “TV
Dinner” went into full production and sold 12 million cartons.
But that is just the beginning of the story as the evolution
of Swanson® has spanned several decades.
