We can't believe it's been SEVEN years since we started this little nut butter company. We started out making nut butter in small food processors in our kitchen (collecting payment via Venmo and hand-delivering)—driven by our conviction that some day this biz could be the vehicle for job training to womxn overcoming adversity (...but to be frank, a bit unclear on how and when that might happen.)
Seven years later, we have a team of 20+ womxn from all different backgrounds and walks of life working together to produce the *best* (yes, we said it!) nut butter. We've employed over 70 womxn through our training program in the last 7 years, transitioned through 3 different kitchen spaces, grew to over 600 stores, had moments of almost calling it quits on the business, and found joy in moments of celebration when one of our womxn graduated or got housing. It has been a ROLLER COASTER to say the least, but we're still here. Somehow thriving in spite of all that the last few years have thrown at us. (Thanks to all of our incredible customers and their continued support!)
In honor of our 7th birthday, we're reflecting on the milestones that got us to where we are today. We're also celebrating with a SALE for you (more on that here) and other fun birthday surprises!
Janet Depew — April 19 2022
My introduction to Ground Up PDX was from my sister-in-law in Oregon with the Lavender flavor. I just loved it from that moment on and have been purchasing from San Diego now for the last 5 years. They were my go to gifts for Christmas to all of my friends as I hoped they, too, would love it as much as I do. I love some of your limited flavors so much that I hope they might become regulars. Thank you and wishing all of you the best — forward!
Joanne Susi — April 19 2022
A big congratulations to you for not only having a vision but allowing it to come to fruition while allowing the expansion. I mostly love you did not let not knowing the “how” to stop you from going forward. Clarity on your strong desire is the perfect start, he divine inspirastions on how then follows. Sending you much love and light!!!
Deanne Gillock — April 9 2021
It’s wonderful seeing the amazing product & business you’ve built over the past 5 years, but I’m especially excited to have witnessed firsthand the lives forever changed through your employment training program! Thanks for sticking with your vision!!
Maggie Hohle — April 9 2021
I can’t remember where or how I discovered you but I work with a small nonprofit whose mission is to provide Petaluma River access to all —through people-powered boat rentals—and your success inspires me to keep going, believing that a product with a mission can thrive! Plus, your nut butters are amazing!!! Love to you all from Petaluma, California.
Gaye Roth — April 9 2021
I remember you from the farmers’ market start. Incredible women, incredible product and an incredible mission! Kudos for following such an amazing path!
Ali V. — April 6 2021
I loved reading about your journey and I hope you know how lucky we all are to have Ground Up in our lives and tummies. My favorite part is when you finally get your own space. What you do for womxn overcoming adversity is a truly honorable and notable work, and I’m so glad that you’ll finally be able to create that safe space you’ve been envisioning all this time for them and you! Congrats!
Marsha Serling Goldberg — April 5 2021
Mazel Tov! Wow! What a Terrific Walk down Memory Lane!” Fantastic product, the best mission and wonderful work environment. It doesn’t get better than that! So excited to order favorites during this special time.
Sally Sullivan — April 5 2021
What a wonderful “walk down Memory Lane”! Such vision, Perseverance, Creativity and true grit ave gotten you to where you are today. Incredible products, a fantastic warehouse and an Environment that welcomes everyone. So excited to see how the next 5 years unfold!