Established in 1947 by David Pace, Pace Picante Sauce was the first to commercially use the “P” word (“picante,” which means “spicy” or “flavorful” in Spanish) for its salsa, which was originally made in the back of a San Antonio liquor store. Proud of their Texas roots, this award-winning condiment company (if you could call it that – it’s more like the main dish if you ask us!) was bought by Campbell’s in 1994. What was the selling price? A “picante” $1.115 billion! Remaining one of the top sellers in their sector, the company has moved to Paris, Texas, where it continues to produce some top-of-the-line product.
Beginning his own food service business that included bottled syrups, jams, and jellies, Pace made, packed, and shipped each of his products in his small space at the back of the liquor store which he and his wife rented. In time, the business expanded to include a number of other condiments, and in ‘47 he decided to experiment with salsa recipes.