Totally Bananas, LLC

In 2009, Chuck and Mindy Pheterson decided to risk it all and launch Totally Bananas after having an epiphany while visiting a local ice cream shop. By the end of the year, two single serve products (plain chocolate and chocolate topped with granulated peanuts) were ready to launch. The Phetersons bought a small reach-in freezer, a soup warmer for melting chocolate, and rented 10 square feet of kitchen space from a local caterer. Momentum built, and in 2010, a business partner joined the team, the company's first local distributor came onboard, manufacturing employees were hired, and the company moved into its first facility. Totally Bananas also added two new flavors: rainbow sprinkle and coconut. In 2012 national distributors signed with Totally Bananas and distribution grew to span theme parks, zoos, and attractions throughout the US and Canada. Over the course of the next five years, business continued to expand, manufacturing was upgraded, and the brand developed. Totally Bananas is currently the #1 selling banana novelty brand across food service and convenience. Today, Totally Bananas is available in Whole Foods Market as well as HEB's Central Market, Gelson's Markets and several other fine retailers.