In a significant shift for one of America's most recognisable snack brands, Cape Cod potato chips are being removed from their namesake home after more than four decades of production. The iconic kettle-cooked chips, synonymous with the Massachusetts coastline, will no longer be manufactured in Hyannis following a major corporate decision.
End of an Era for Cape Cod Production
Campbell's Snacks, the parent company of Cape Cod Chips, announced on Friday that it would be closing its factory in Hyannis, Massachusetts as part of what it described as 'an ongoing effort to transform its Snacks supply chain network.' The facility, which produces both Cape Cod and Kettle Brand products, will cease operations in April 2026.
The decision marks the end of local manufacturing that began in 1985, just five years after Steve Bernard founded the original Cape Cod Chips storefront on the Hyannis peninsula. For 41 years, the factory has been producing the distinctive kettle-cooked chips that became a regional institution and popular tourist attraction.
Economic Realities Drive Difficult Decision
Campbell's stated that maintaining the Cape Cod branch 'no longer makes economic sense for the business.' According to company figures, the Hyannis plant currently accounts for only four percent of Cape Cod products distributed nationwide.
Campbell's Snacks President Elizabeth Duggan acknowledged the challenging nature of the closure, calling it a 'difficult decision' that followed careful assessment of business needs. 'This difficult decision reflects a careful assessment of our business needs to strengthen our operations and position our Snacks business for long-term growth,' she stated.
The closure will reportedly affect 49 employees in Hyannis, though Campbell's has committed to providing benefits and placement support following the termination of their positions.
Production Shifts to Three US States
Following the Hyannis closure, production of Cape Cod chips will be transferred to existing manufacturing facilities in three American states:
- Wisconsin
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
These locations will absorb the additional production capacity previously handled by the Massachusetts factory, according to company reports.
Corporate History and Recent Investments
Campbell's acquired the Cape Cod chips brand in 2018 as part of a substantial $4.8 billion acquisition. Interestingly, just months before this corporate takeover, the previous owner Snyder's-Lance had announced a $20 million investment into the Hyannis factory for expansion and upgraded tour facilities.
The factory had become a notable tourist destination for visitors to Cape Cod, offering public tours that showcased the chip-making process. At its peak, the facility welcomed numerous guests interested in seeing how the popular snacks were produced.
Community Commitments and Brand Legacy
Despite the factory closure, Campbell's has pledged to maintain connections with the Hyannis community. The company announced it would continue partnering with local organisations to support 'the hospitality needs of the region' and invest in community partnerships and culinary programs that foster food innovation.
In statements to local media, Campbell's emphasised that 'the spirit and energy of Cape Cod will always be at the core of the Cape Cod chips brand,' suggesting the geographical connection will remain part of the product's identity despite the manufacturing relocation.
Historical Context and Local Significance
Hyannis, a small village on Cape Cod, is historically significant beyond its chip production. The community is known for its connections to the Kennedy family, housing the Kennedy compound and the JFK Museum and Memorial, while serving as a transportation hub to Martha's Vineyard.
The closure of the factory represents not just an economic shift but a cultural change for a region that has hosted the brand's manufacturing operations for over four decades. As production moves to facilities across the United States, the distinctive Cape Cod chips will continue to reach consumers nationwide, albeit without their original geographical manufacturing home.
