Kiwi classic chip brand Bluebird celebrates 70 years
The nation’s oldest and most iconic snack brand, Bluebird, is celebrating its 70th birthday. As Kiwi as beach cricket and manus off a wharf, Bluebird has been with New Zealanders through thick and thin. From family reunions, to BBQs, and parties, Bluebird has long been the must have chip at all get-togethers.
Bluebird’s story began in 1953, when young entrepreneur, Les Saussey, started selling popcorn and later potato chips, at Auckland’s Western Spring Speedway. The popularity of his Bluebird chips quickly grew and were offered throughout New Zealand.
Today, the iconic snack brand employs more than 350 people in its South Auckland-based factory and purchases more than 30 million kilograms of fresh Kiwi potatoes each year, making a significant contribution to local jobs, agriculture and the economy.
Bluebird General Manager, Michelle Cassettari, says the company is incredibly proud of its heritage.
“This year marks a significant milestone for the brand, but more importantly, for the people behind Bluebird – our people and our farmers.”
“Bluebird is a true New Zealand success story. From Sir Edmund Hilary reaching the South Pole in 1958, to winning the Rugby World Cup in 1987, we’ve been through a lot with Kiwis in our 70 years and we’re very grateful that they continue to choose Bluebird as their favourite chips and snacks.”
As part of the 70th birthday celebrations, Bluebird’s Facebook community chose to bring back Lamb & Mint and Bacon flavoured chips, relaunching the favourites with new packaging featuring fan’s best Bluebird memories. Look out for these at supermarkets across New Zealand.
Bluebird also has thousands of prizes up for grabs to say thanks to Kiwis for their ongoing support. Anyone can win by tracking down Bluebird’s VIP (Very Important Penguin) suit, hidden in a vault around New Zealand during May and June. Those participating in the promotion will go into the draw for an all-inclusive trip for two to Queenstown.
While the company is 70 years young, Bluebird is also looking to the future and is committed to minimising waste and promoting positive change for the planet and its people.
“We’re doing our part to maximise our positive impact on New Zealanders’ lives and our environment. All our potatoes, corn, and oats are sustainably sourced and we’re working closely with our farmers to establish regenerative farming practices. In addition, we have reduced water usage at our Wiri manufacturing facility by 28% over the past five years and the site is proudly powered by 100% renewable energy,” adds Cassettari.
“We are looking forward to Bluebird continuing to take pride of place in Kiwi pantries for the next 70 years.”
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PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $86 billion in net revenue in 2022, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.
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