Borden Dairy was a major American dairy company founded in 1857 by Gail Borden Jr. in New York. The company was known for pioneering the development of condensed milk and establishing one of the largest dairy distribution networks in the United States. Throughout its history, Borden Dairy operated numerous processing plants and distribution facilities across the country, producing milk, cream, cheese, butter, and other dairy products. The company’s mascot, Elsie the Cow, introduced in 1936, became one of the most recognizable advertising icons in American history. Borden Dairy underwent several ownership changes throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries. In 2009, the company was acquired by Grupo LALA, a Mexican dairy company, and continued operations under the name Borden Dairy Company. However, in January 2020, Borden Dairy filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing rising raw milk costs and changing consumer preferences as contributing factors. In July 2020, the company was sold to Capitol Peak Partners and KKR & Co. Inc. Following the acquisition, many of Borden’s assets were integrated into other dairy operations, effectively ending the company’s independent operations. The brand’s intellectual property and some operations were subsequently acquired by LALA U.S., which continues to produce dairy products under various brands.