When Hormel Foods made a significant investment of $3.35 billion four years ago to acquire Kraft Heinz’s snack nut portfolio, much attention was focused on the standout product of the deal: Planters nuts.Read more.
However, nestled within this acquisition was a brand that Hormel believed had untapped potential – Corn Nuts. Despite being overshadowed by Planters, Corn Nuts presented a unique opportunity for growth and revitalization.
Corn Nuts, a snack with origins dating back to the Great Depression, had been neglected by Kraft Heinz in favor of its more popular counterpart. Recognizing the value in this overlooked brand, Hormel set out to breathe new life into Corn Nuts.
With the acquisition of Corn Nuts in 2021, Hormel aimed to expand the brand’s presence beyond convenience stores and introduce it to a wider audience across different regions.
One of the key strengths of Corn Nuts is its versatility in flavors, with options like Original, Ranch, BBQ, and Chile Picante Con Limon. Hormel’s strategy includes launching new limited-time flavors annually to capitalize on market trends and consumer preferences.
Since taking ownership of Corn Nuts, Hormel has seen positive growth in various metrics such as sales, distribution, and household penetration.
Looking ahead, Hormel is exploring innovative opportunities for the brand, such as the recent introduction of Corn Nuts Partially Popped, a unique hybrid snack combining the crunch of Corn Nuts with the light texture of popcorn.
With plans to potentially expand Corn Nuts into new formats and product offerings, Hormel is committed to unlocking the full potential of this beloved snack brand.