JPC News & Analysis

Johnson Products Company Founder George E. Johnson Dies at 99

George E. Johnson, founder of Johnson Products Company, passed away at age 99 from natural causes, according to reports. The company, established in 1954, achieved nearly 80% market share in Black hair care by 1960 and was the first Black-owned company listed on the American Stock Exchange in 1971. Johnson started with a $250 loan and grew his business alongside the Black Pride and Black Power movements. His death marks the loss of a significant figure in the hair care market, which remains influential today, especially for Black consumers.