Uglies Kettle Chips: On A Mission Reduce Waste (While Producing Delicious Chips)

Robert (Bob) Zender is the Director of Marketing of Uglies Kettle Chips, a brand that has carved a niche in the snack industry by being the only upcycled certified kettle chips in the marketplace. With seven years of dedicated service, Uglies has transformed "imperfect" potatoes into premium small-batch kettle chips. Bob and the Dieffenbach family have been working with agricultural communities for over 60 years, pivoting in the last seven to focus on the upcycled potato chip brand Uglies. He is passionate about creating high-quality snacks without compromising taste, texture, or environmental responsibility. In this episode… Can a snack brand help save the planet, support farmers, and feed hungry children? How does one company use its products to address the staggering amount of yearly food waste? Is it possible for something as simple as snacking to become an act of global change? Brand marketing and business development professional Robert (Bob) Zender dives into how a family business transformed into a mission-driven powerhouse targeting food waste and hunger. He narrates the journey of Uglies, from their roots in Dieffenbach's Potato Chips to the rise of an impactful brand that leverages less-than-perfect potatoes to produce quality snacks while giving back to the community. With a strong commitment to social justice, Uglies has upcycled over 25 million pounds of potatoes, contributing to a healthier planet and well-nourished children. On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Robert (Bob) Zender, Director of Marketing of Uglies Kettle Chips, about upcycling imperfect potatoes into delicious snacks. Bob discusses Dieffenbach's history and commitment to sustainability and starting Uglies, its direct impact on reducing food waste and supporting farmers, how Uglies contribute to alleviating global childhood undernourishment, and the crucial role of strategic marketing and community engagement in its growth.