Kettle Brand Potato Chips
Premium kettle-cooked potato chip manufacturer known for all-natural ingredients.
PE-OWNED
Acquired by Leonard Green & Partners2006-04-18
What Made It Great
Premium positioning in snack foods with natural ingredients and artisanal production methods
What PE Will Likely Do
Kettle Brand Potato Chips will likely switch to cheaper, lower-quality potato varietals and oils to reduce ingredient costs
Package sizes for Kettle Brand Potato Chips will likely be reduced while prices remain the same or increase
Kettle Brand Potato Chips will likely consolidate or close some of its production facilities, leading to changes in production methods and inconsistent product quality
The signature 'kettle-cooked' texture and 'all-natural' ingredient profile of Kettle Brand Potato Chips will likely be compromised as the company makes formula changes to reduce costs
Expected Timeline
“0 to 6 months months”
Minimal visible changes as ownership transition occurs
“6 to 12 months months”
Kettle Brand begins using cheaper potato varieties and oils, supply chain changes start to take effect
“12 to 24 months months”
Consumers start noticing differences in taste, texture, and consistency of Kettle Brand Potato Chips as quality degrades, brand reputation begins to suffer
Similar Cases
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
What You Can Do
Actions
Be on the lookout for changes in the taste, texture, and consistency of Kettle Brand Potato Chips
Compare the ingredient lists and package sizes of Kettle Brand Potato Chips over time to identify potential cost-cutting measures
Consider switching to alternative premium chip brands that maintain quality and authenticity if Kettle Brand Potato Chips deteriorates
Alternatives
Look for family-owned or employee-owned businesses