Mikesell’s Snack Food Company closes in Dayton after 113 years

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) – A Dayton-based snack company is closing its doors after more than a century of bringing legendary chips to the Miami Valley.

According to the company’s website, Mikesell’s Snack Food Company has operated out of Dayton since 1910. Around 113 years later, the company is one of the oldest potato chip companies in the USA – and now it’s time to say goodbye.

“The Mikesell’s family and team would like to thank the community, consumers and partners for their love and support over the past 112+ years,” said Luke Mapp, President of Mikesell’s. “Our family will long remember the love of the fans, the friendships and the victories along the way.”

On February 1, Mikesell’s announced that it had begun winding down all operations, including manufacturing and distribution, while the company prepares for liquidation of assets. The liquidation process will start immediately and last several months.

“It’s been around for over 100 years, so it’s really an iconic brand for the community, and I think there will be generations of families there who will feel the impact of its closure,” Keith, Senior Development Specialist for the City of Dayton said small.

Following Wednesday’s announcement, many people in the Miami Valley were upset by the news.

“It’s pretty sad, it’s a Dayton-owned company,” said Charles Schwab of the Miami Valley. “I can’t get them anywhere but Dayton.”

Commenting on the closure of Mikesell during a news conference on Wednesday, Gov. Mike DeWine said the snack brand is part of Dayton.

“They’ve been a great, great deal and we’re so sorry that that’s happening,” DeWine said.

Klein said the Dayton snack factory employs about 50 people. Dayton City officials have already reached out to see what they can do to help.

“We will be communicating with them to see where we can support both the company and the laid-off employees,” Klein said.

Though that Dayton staple will be gone, Mikesell’s said that may not be the end of their products for local fans. In the press release, Mikesell’s said it intends to transfer all of Mikesell’s trademark and IP rights to another quality snack food manufacturer as soon as possible.

“While terms have not yet been finalized, we understand the desire to keep product available and are working to facilitate the necessary discussions for approvals that will allow for uninterrupted supply of Mikesell products,” the press release reads.