When you hear the term “Chip Maker” in Austin, you most likely think of silicon chips and wafers used for computers. But a more traditional chip maker is looking to expand here in Central Texas and plans to hire 150 people over the next two to three years to support their growing demand. Bean Brand Foods, Inc, makers of Beanitos chips, is seeking an appropriate facility of around 75,000 square feet to increase their production capacity. A recent story in the Austin Business Journal profiles the company and provides and discusses their possible expansion in our area.
The chips, a natural alternative to less healthy snack foods, has already found its way onto shelves in Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Sunflowers Farmers Market. One would expect to find a gluten-free, corn-free snack with no genetically-modified ingredients in these types of natural food stores. And yet, the popularity has grown and Beanitos can now also be purchased at many 7-11 and HEB stores. In fact, you can find these chips in over 5,000 retail outlets throughout the nation.
The company currently headquarters in Austin and has 10 employees, according to an earlier story in the Austin Business Journal. 2011 production estimates predict 500,000 – 700,000 cases to be sold for $6 – $7 million in revenue. Production of the snack food takes place in California in a dedicated facility that only creates gluten-free foods, preventing any accidental contamination. The company has expressed a desire in the past to bring production to this area to decrease travel time and costs between headquarters and production. The new announcement coincides with these previous statements from founder Doug Foreman.
To read the most recent article from the Austin Business Journal, click here.
To read the previous article from the Austin Business Journal, click here.
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