The Craft – The Savvy Pickle

Bubbies Pickles is a highly successful pickle company, but do you know their history? Do you know how they got their start? Bubbies Pickles has a long history in the pickle business, we will cover their history, products, innovations and where they are today. History of the Company How did they get their start? Bubbies Pickles was founded in the 1980s with the mission of bringing high-quality, traditional Jewish-style pickles to a broader audience. The brand is known for its commitment to natural fermentation methods, drawing on Old World recipes and pickling traditions. How long have they been in business? Bubbies has been in business for over 40 years. It started as a small operation and gradually expanded, now being widely available across the U.S. and beyond. Who owns the company? Bubbies Pickles is a family-owned business, though it was acquired in 2015 by the specialty foods company Freestone Partners. The acquisition has allowed the brand to expand its market presence while maintaining its artisanal approach. Are they publicly traded? No, Bubbies Pickles is privately owned and is not publicly traded. Information about their Products What products do they make? Bubbies is best known for its Kosher Dill Pickles, but they also offer a variety of other fermented and pickled products, including Bread & Butter Chips, Sauerkraut, Horseradish, and Spicy Kosher Dill Pickles. Their product lineup emphasizes naturally fermented foods without artificial preservatives. What is their most popular product? Their Kosher Dill Pickles are the flagship product and widely regarded as the brand’s most popular item. Bubbies’ pickles have a distinctive, traditional taste that appeals to those seeking authentic, naturally fermented foods. What makes them unique? Bubbies stands out because of its natural, lacto-fermentation process. Unlike many mass-produced pickles, Bubbies’ products are made without vinegar, relying on a saltwater brine and natural fermentation to achieve their signature tang and crunch. This method preserves the probiotics in the pickles, which appeals to health-conscious consumers. Are they expensive compared to their competition? Yes, Bubbies products are generally more expensive than standard commercial pickles. Their pricing reflects the traditional fermentation process, high-quality ingredients, and lack of preservatives, which position them in the premium pickle market. Do they sell their products internationally? Yes, Bubbies products are available internationally, primarily in Canada and select countries worldwide. They can often be found in specialty grocery stores and health food shops with a focus on fermented or probiotic-rich foods. Where do they source their cucumbers? Bubbies sources cucumbers from select U.S. farms to ensure consistency in quality and flavor. They work closely with farmers to get the right size and freshness for optimal fermentation results. Innovations in the Pickle Industry Focus on Natural Fermentation: Bubbies is renowned for its commitment to traditional lacto-fermentation without vinegar, which produces a unique flavor profile and preserves probiotics. This method has set a new standard for artisanal, health-focused pickles. Probiotic-Rich Products: By prioritizing fermentation, Bubbies has tapped into the health-conscious market, emphasizing the benefits of naturally occurring probiotics. Their pickles and sauerkraut are particularly popular with consumers seeking gut-friendly, fermented foods. Clean Label Approach: Bubbies uses minimal ingredients and avoids preservatives, which appeals to those looking for clean, authentic products. Their ingredient transparency has contributed to trust and loyalty among health-conscious customers. Expansion into Specialty Fermented Foods: Bubbies has expanded beyond pickles into other fermented products, such as sauerkraut and horseradish, further cementing their position as a leader in probiotic-rich foods. This diversification helps meet a broader range of consumer preferences. The Company Today What do they sell besides pickles? In addition to pickles, Bubbies produces sauerkraut, relish, horseradish, and pickled beets. These products are also made with a natural fermentation process, reflecting Bubbies’ dedication to high-quality, probiotic-rich foods. How much have they achieved in sales? Exact sales figures for Bubbies are not publicly disclosed, but the brand has experienced steady growth, especially in recent years due to the increased popularity of fermented foods. Their products are a staple in many health-conscious households, contributing to consistent revenue. Who is the CEO of the company? John Gray is currently the CEO of Bubbies. He joined following the acquisition by Freestone Partners and has led the company’s continued expansion while keeping its traditional values intact. How much is the company worth? The exact valuation of Bubbies is undisclosed, as it remains privately held. However, its strong market position within the premium, natural foods category suggests it holds substantial value within its niche. Where in the world are their products sold? Bubbies products are sold across the United States, Canada, and in select international markets. The brand is commonly found in health food stores, specialty grocery stores, and online, catering to a niche but growing demand for natural, fermented products. Bubbies has a long history in the lacto-fermented pickle space. Having started in San Francisco, they have put California on the map and continue to make fantastic products. If you are looking to try a true fermented pickle, be sure to try Bubbies Pickles.