Signature Event: The TABASCO® Recipe - Family Business Longevity
What does it take for a family business to endure for more than a century?
For many legacy enterprises, the answer lies in disciplined governance, aligned family leadership, and an unwavering commitment to core values, even as the business evolves.
No organization illustrates this balance more clearly than McIlhenny Company, makers of the iconic TABASCO® Sauce. Now in its seventh generation, the company has preserved its heritage while continually sharpening its governance structures to support long-term continuity.
Join us to learn how this multigenerational enterprise has navigated pivotal transitions, from refining its board structure to developing future family leaders. All while maintaining the integrity of its brand and culture.
Our featured speaker, Tony Simmons, fifth-generation family member and former CEO, will offer an honest perspective from his own leadership journey. He’ll explore how McIlhenny Company strengthens its foundation through:
- A professionalized and strategically engaged board
- Clear family policies that build trust and alignment
- Governance systems designed for resilience across generations
- Purposeful next-gen development that prepares future stewards
Anthony A “Tony” Simmons is president of Avery Island Inc. and E A McIlhenny Enterprises as well as serving on the board of each company. He served as a director of McIlhenny Company, a 157 year old family owned and operated business and the maker of Tabasco Brand Pepper Sauce for 26 years. He is the great great grandson of the inventor of Tabasco, Edmund McIlhenny. Mr. Simmons, a member of the 5th generation, was the 7th family member to assume company leadership. Mr. Simmons was elected to the McIlhenny Company board in 1998 and began employment with the company in 2000 when he joined as Executive Vice President. Promoted to COO in 2012 and President and CEO in 2013. Mr. Simmons ran the company until he retired in June of 2019. Prior to joining McIlhenny Company, Mr. Simmons spent 25 years in the heavy equipment industry after graduating from Loyola University in New Orleans in 1974. From 1993 till 1999 he was President and CEO of Manitowoc Southeastern, an independent crane distributor in the southeast.
Mr. Simmons is chairman of the S Corp Association, a non-partisan group, based in Washington D C, which advocates on behalf of companies organized as S Corporations. An avid golfer, Mr. Simmons also enjoys wing shooting and fishing.
Event Sponsors
Date and Time
Tuesday Nov 10, 2026
7:30 AM - 10:30 AM EST
Location
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
1000 East Beltline
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Fees/Admission
Public Registration: $200
Grand Rapids Chamber Member Registration: $100
Member and Underwriter Registration: Free tickets in accordance with level.
Refund Policy: No refunds allowed.
