United Airlines is giving you the chance to snack like a big shot and to solve one of their problems.
For decades, United Airlines served first-class passengers their Premium Nut Mixes, and for the last two years, it was produced by an Arlington, Texas, woman-owned, family-run business, GNS Foods.
But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the airline removed the nuts from all of its flights, saying that it was reducing contact between passengers and its flight staff.
As a result, GNS Foods is now left with more than 30,000 pounds of surplus nuts - but consumers are met with a large discount!
"Not only are we left with bags of mixes, we are also left with the raw ingredients and ingredient contracts from the suppliers. We were asked to maintain United's costs on their mixes for one year. In order to do that, we had to sign raw ingredient contracts for one year. Now we're left with these contracts. If nut prices rise, then you can sell the contract at a profit. Unfortunately, that's not what happened. Nut prices fell, and the raw ingredient suppliers are looking to us to make up the difference! The other question is, 'Where to go with all of these nuts?" said Kim Peacock, owner of GNS Foods, in a statement.
Peacock said GNS Foods has no choice, but to sell the nut mixes under the Elite Status Airline Nut Mixes at near cost prices in its retail store and online at www.GreatNuts.com.
The two mixes are: Elite Status Nut Mix, a blend of whole cashews and whole almonds, which are usually severed warm to first-class passengers; and Elite Status Hawaii Mix, a blend of whole cashews, whole almonds, and large whole macadamia nuts, which were served on flights to Hawaii. They are packed in two-pound bags.
A case of Elite Status Airline Mix is available online or at GNS Foods' retail store in Arlington, Texas, for $92.28 a case or $7.99 per bag, and the Elite Status Hawaii Mix is available for $128.28 a case or $10.99 per bag, according to GNS Foods.
"This is a deal of a lifetime where specialty nuts are concerned. Scoop them up fast!" Peacock said. "Even though we have a lot of them, I foresee calls from retailers looking to buy by the pallet load."
Those wanting larger quantities can call the processing plant at 817-795-4671 for shipping quotes.