Bister was founded in 1926. Throughout its history, the label on its pots and jars, and signage has evolved. Discover the history of Bister by finding old labels and signs. François Bister's line of business in 1926 was roasting chicory. He bought a local mustard factory in 1930, and turned his attention to a jealously guarded recipe for L'Impériale mustard. It used to be sent to grocer's shops in a large stoneware container where the grocer would use a ladle to fill the dishes brought in by their customers. With the advent of the self-service system, the "grenade-shaped" jars made an appearance. L'Impériale mustard jar has never changed and is just as popular as ever. Jean Bister succeeded his father as manager the company and Fabienne Bister has since taken up the torch. Companies headed by the third generation are rather thin on the ground nowadays. Franz, Jean and Fabienne Bister have developed the site in Jambes, close to Namur (Belgium, Wallonia) since 1926, then the one in St Thibault close to Troyes (France, Champagne, Aube) since 2001. Summer 2013 will be marked by the move of the factory in Jambes to Achêne (Ciney, Wallonia) Established with family capital, these two factories take the legal form of a public company in Belgium (15 employees) and a private limited company in France (5 employees).
