Connect Business Magazine recognizes Dan and Angie Bastian
Mankato, Minn. — January 30, 2012 — Dan and Angie Bastian, co-founders and owners of Angie’s Kettle Corn, have been named Connect Business Magazine’s 2012 Business Person of the Year. Winners are chosen on the basis of character, leadership, business results, and community involvement. Now in its ninth year, the award honors business leaders from companies all over Minnesota.
“We couldn’t be more honored to receive this award,” said Dan Bastian. “We’ve put our heart and soul into this company and to be recognized with this award truly is an honor.”
“We started this company in our garage with nothing but a stainless steel kettle and a dream,” said Angie Bastian. “It was important for us to show our children that with hard work and perseverance, you can accomplish anything you put your mind to.”
And the Bastians have done just that. Since launching the company just ten years ago, Angie’s has gone from a part-time, family-run business to a 180-employee operation that manufactures up to 100,000 bags a day. Today Angie’s is the nation’s second best-selling kettle corn and can be found in leading grocery and natural food stores in 50 states.
Dan and Angie are also known for giving back to the community. They remain involved with programs in support of youth and education, donate product to numerous area non-profits and give their employees paid time off to volunteer. A recent cause partner is Misfit Acres, a sanctuary for abused and neglected horses in Amboy, Minn., which recycles waste from Angie’s packaging operation.
“This award means a great deal to us,” said Angie Bastian. “And I hope it inspires others to see that it’s not only possible to pursue a dream but to actually see it comes true.”
About Angie’s Kettle Corn
Husband and wife entrepreneurs Dan and Angie Bastian founded Angie’s Kettle Corn in 2001 as a family-run, outdoor vendor operation. Today, Angie’s has increased in sales and popularity, moving the operation from outdoor festivals and events to a production facility with expanded distribution. Angie’s Classic, Caramel and Lite flavors are distributed to 50 states and found in locations that include Costco, SuperTarget, Target and Whole Foods as well as in co-ops, health food stores or ordered online. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/angieskettlecorn or Twitter @AngiesKettle.
Media Contact:
Jeanne Carpenter
612-803-1282
jcarpenter@perception-ink.com
“We’re excited to offer parents a delicious, all-natural treat for Halloween,” said Angie Bastian, namesake, nurse and co-founder of Angie’s Kettle Corn. “Our kettle corn is a healthier alternative to artificially colored and flavored candies. At 70 calories (.5 oz) our product is made with four simple – sweet and salty – ingredients that kids will love: popcorn, corn oil, sea salt and cane sugar.”
