Cannon traces its origins to 1887, when American entrepreneur James William Cannon established the Cannon Manufacturing Company in Kannapolis, North Carolina. The company initially specialized in cotton textiles and rapidly expanded during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as demand for household linens increased. [2]

By 1914, Cannon had become the largest towel and sheet manufacturer in the world, producing millions of towels and bed linens annually. Its manufacturing operations helped transform Kannapolis into one of America’s most important textile towns. [3]

A major innovation came in 1923, when Cannon became the first textile company to sew its brand name directly onto towels. This branding strategy helped distinguish Cannon products from generic textiles and established lasting consumer recognition. [4]

Throughout the late 20th century, Cannon experienced several ownership changes:

• 1985–1986: Cannon Mills became part of Fieldcrest-Cannon, following the acquisition of Cannon by Fieldcrest. [5]

• 1997: Fieldcrest-Cannon was acquired by Pillowtex Corporation. [6]

• 2003: Pillowtex entered bankruptcy, ending large-scale U.S. manufacturing.

• 2007: The Cannon brand and related intellectual property were acquired by Iconix Brand Group (now Iconix International), which shifted the brand to a licensing business model. [7]

Today, Cannon products are manufactured by licensed partners in various countries while maintaining consistent branding and product standards.

Cannon positions itself as a provider of affordable, dependable, and comfortable home essentials. Rather than focusing on luxury pricing, the brand emphasizes:

• Everyday comfort

• Durable construction

• Easy-care fabrics

• Practical designs

• Good value for money

Iconix describes Cannon as “The Heart of Home,” reflecting its focus on products designed for everyday family living. [8]

Cannon offers a broad range of home textile products, including:

Bedding

• Bed sheets

• Pillowcases

• Comforters

• Quilts

• Blankets

• Mattress protectors

• Pillows

• Bed pads

Bath

• Bath towels

• Hand towels

• Face towels

• Bath mats

• Bath rugs

Home Textiles

• Kitchen towels

• Table linens

• Window treatments

• Decorative rugs

• Home accessories

Product offerings may vary by country depending on local licensing agreements. [12]

Cannon has been available in the Philippine market for many years through department stores, supermarkets, and online marketplaces. On Lazada Philippines, the brand is primarily associated with:

• 100% cotton bath towels

• Hotel-style towels

• Bed sheet sets

• Comforters

• Pillows

• Bedding accessories

Among Filipino consumers, Cannon is often recognized for:

• Thick cotton towels

• Strong water absorbency

• Long-lasting fabric quality

• Classic, simple designs

• Mid-range pricing

Community discussions on Philippine forums and Reddit frequently recommend Cannon towels for their durability, with many users reporting years of regular use before noticeable wear. These are anecdotal experiences rather than official product guarantees. [9] [10] [11]

Although Cannon originated as an American textile manufacturer, most modern Cannon products are produced through licensed manufacturing partners in Asia and other regions. This licensing model allows the brand to serve markets in:

• North America

• South America

• Europe

• India

• Southeast Asia

• Australia and New Zealand

• The Middle East [12]

Cannon has maintained strong brand recognition for more than a century. Its reputation is built on:

• A long heritage in home textiles

• Reliable cotton products

• Broad retail availability

• Affordable pricing

• Consistent quality for everyday household use

Rather than competing exclusively in the luxury segment, Cannon occupies the mainstream market, appealing to families seeking dependable bedding and bath products.

Cannon played a significant role in the development of the American textile industry during the 20th century. At its peak, Cannon Mills was one of the world’s largest producers of towels and bed sheets and helped shape modern textile branding through innovations such as sewn-in logos and large-scale branded home linens. Although the original manufacturing company no longer exists, the Cannon name continues as an internationally licensed home textiles brand with products sold across numerous global markets. [3]

Quick Facts

1. Cannon – Iconix International

2. 10-K 1 icon-10k_20201231.htm 10-K

3. Cannon Mills

4. Cannon Mills | Textiles History

5. Fieldcrest Cannon, Inc. – Company Profile, Information, Business Description, History, Background Information on Fieldcrest Cannon, Inc.

6. Pillowtex Corporation

7. Iconix Lands Fieldcrest, Cannon brands for $231 million | Brand & Trade Report

8. Our Story – Cannonhome

9. Bath towel reco? Something that’s not made from plastic

10. Help : looking for towel

11. Quality bath towels

12. Cannon | Iconix International EMEA