A.J. Funk and Co. sold, becomes Sparkle Products

ELGIN - A.J. Funk and Co., known for its Sparkle Glass Cleaner, has been acquired by Baron Manufacturing Co. LLC, a national and international hardware distributor and supplier based in Itasca.

A.J. Funk has become Sparkle Products LLC, a new Illinois corporation and sister company to Baron Manufacturing, the companies said. The transaction closed Oct. 18, the companies said in a news release. Financial terms of the sale were not disclosed.

"We are excited to bring our decades of distribution experience to the Sparkle line of cleaning products," said Robert McKinney Jr., chief executive officer, Sparkle Products LLC. "Cleaning products are a growing industry projected to reach $46.9 billion U.S. by 2026. We are excited to be part of this growth by bringing the iconic purple Sparkle Glass Cleaner into more homes and businesses across the United States."

For the last 75 years, A.J. Funk has been known for its glass cleaner with its unique purple color and ability to remove tough grease and grime without streaking. A.J. Funk acquired the formulation after World War II when it was originally used to clean dirty buildup on the gunner sights of aircraft. Funk took notice of its ability to clean without smearing and residue, and started making it in a backroom at his paper company. Its brilliant purple color became well-known throughout Illinois where distribution began in Elgin by paper salesmen.

Today, millions of gallons a year of Sparkle Glass Cleaner are sold, as well as its Microscope Lens Cleaner and Flat Screen Glass Cleaner.

"The synergies between Sparkle Products LLC and the Baron Manufacturing Co. will strengthen the Sparkle brand and expand Sparkle Glass Cleaner and other cleaning products distribution throughout the United States," said Patrick Funk, former owner/president of A.J. Funk & Co. "We are confident this new senior management team will preserve the tradition of Sparkle and bring new opportunities for growth.