Ballreich's: Potato chips and pretzels covered in chocolate

Frito-Lay has ended manufacturing at its Rancho Cucamonga snack plant after 50+ years, affecting potentially hundreds of jobs. While some operations remain, many workers were laid off, with limited transfer options and undisclosed severance details.

A 96,000-square-foot potato chip plant is under construction at the former Loring Air Force Base in Limestone. Owner Bruce Sargent says he expects the plant to be open by April 2026.

The potato snack aisle is a battlefield-crammed with crisps, chips, fries, and a dizzying array of flavours. With global market revenues expected to reach over USD 126 billion by 2034 and a steady 3% annual growth rate, it’s clear that competition is fierce and only getting hotter.