The Velamints brand was launched in the United States in 1977 by Ragold Inc., the independent U.S. affiliate of the German confectionery manufacturer RAGOLDS Suesswaren GmbH, essentially creating the sugar-free breath mint category. Known for product innovation and leading edge design, Ragold has been successfully introducing and marketing confectionery products in the United States since 1976.

Air Force 1 Mints

When cases of Velamints were flown to America, they were sold within hours of their arrival. People called this phenomenon the “Vela Rush of the ‘70s” and America fell in love with Velamints. They became President Ronald Reagan’s favorite mint: the Official Air Force 1 Mint.

There is a family tradition of taste at Ragolds. Our company, which is still owner-managed and, over the years, has launched well-known brands, like Velamints. The German parent, RAGOLDS Suesswaren GmbH + Co. of Karlsruhe, Germany was founded by Adolph Speck in 1887 as “Erste Badische Dampf-Zuckerwaren und Drageefabrik”.

Karl Schindler took over management of the firm in 1924 and developed the concept of strong brands, introducing in 1928 the flagship Rachengold brand (“throat gold”), one of the leading cough drop products in Germany today.

In 1952, Karl Schindler’s son Joerg Schindler, well versed in production, operations and marketing took over management of the firm and streamlined its line of more than 100 products to focus on a core group of key cough drop and candy brands.

Oliver Schindler is today carrying on a 3rd generation family tradition that was started over 150 years ago. Since 2006 RAGOLDS has been based in the north of Germany and produces high quality sweets with the newest technology. Since 2013 brands such as Velamints are being refurbished and new brands and product concepts developed.