Frontenac-based PoPtions is not the only gourmet popcorn-ery in the country, but it's a top-quality product and one that's been true to its St. Louis roots, using locally grown popcorn, locally blended spices and even Bissinger's chocolate. (Its best selling flavor, Over The Top, combines caramel corn with white and dark chocolate, both from Bissinger's.)
The owner, creator and developer, Andrew Freundlich, is a smart marketer as well, continuously dreaming up new ideas, new packaging and new flavors. I lost count of PoPtions' flavors when the count hit 30...and the company is not yet 2 years old—just a popsqueak. (I realize only my punster father is smiling.)
I am hereby echoing a landmark day at PoPtions, the day it officially announced its newest flavors, Toasted Rav Pop! and Gooey Butter Pop! Mr. Genius, say hello to Mr. Obvious.
Freundlich informs me that although both flavors have been available for only several weeks, Gooey Butter Pop! is tied for the #1 seller, right there with Over The Top. When I asked about Toasted Ravioli, he chuckled and said, "once I convince people there's no ground beef, they give it a try."
Next up, the "Best of St. Louis" 3-way tin, of course, containing all 3 flavors. When I asked when they would be available, Freundlich didn't miss a beat: "Today. You want 'em with or without your corporate logo?" -- George Mahe
