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Downey's Potato Chips Expands Relationship with Meijer

In a significant boost for local businesses, Downey's Potato Chips, known for their small batch kettle-cooked goodness, has announced the addition of 39 new Meijer locations in Southeast Michigan. This expansion comes as part of Meijer’s 'Local Endcap' program that aims to showcase locally made products, bringing them closer to consumers who appreciate community connections.

The partnership has elevated Downey's total store presence to an impressive 350 locations, demonstrating the growing popularity of their unique chip flavors. Kali Bagley, General Manager of Downey’s, expressed her excitement, stating, "It's an incredible honor to grow our business with Meijer and reach more Michiganders. We are grateful for Meijer's commitment to supporting local businesses."

Meijer, a staple in the Midwest grocery scene, has a rich history of collaborating with local farmers and producers to deliver fresh, quality products. The Local Endcap program is a strategic initiative designed to highlight homegrown brands, featuring clear signage that emphasizes the tagline, "flavors we love made close to home." This program not only benefits customers but significantly enriches local economies by connecting them to homegrown heritage.

Downey's story began over three decades ago in 1984 when Rosemary Downey Hogarth opened a storefront in Waterford, Michigan. Initially selling hot chips to eager locals, the demand skyrocketed, leading to a transition to a processing facility for commercial production. With Rosemary's grandchildren eventually taking over, the family business continued to flourish until it was sold in 2012 to the Bagley family, who share a similar vision for maintaining Downey's strong community roots.

A hallmark of Downey's operations is their dedication to preserving traditional chip-making methods. The team prides itself on handcrafting kettle chips in small batches, a process integral to achieving the desired texture and flavor that distinguishes their products. Locally sourced potatoes are peeled and meticulously selected, ensuring only the finest ingredients go into every chip.

Downey's Potato Chips offers a variety of four classic flavors:

• - Original Sea Salt
• - Vinegar and Sea Salt
• - Barbeque
• - No Salt

Bagley emphasizes that the old-fashioned, hand-crafted approach is what makes Downey’s chips stand out in a competitive market. “Our company came from humble beginnings, and our customer relationships are at the core of our success,” she notes. The light and crispy nature of their chips represent a refreshing take on traditional kettle-cooked potato chips.

This partnership with Meijer signifies a mutual commitment to supporting local economies and bringing quality snacks to more families. Downey's hopes to introduce its beloved products to an even broader audience, reinforcing the shared community values that both companies embody.

To learn more about Downey's Potato Chips and find a location near you, visit www.downeyspotatochips.com, and explore the delightful flavors that have earned a special place in many Michigander hearts.