Traverse Bay Farms Spotlighted in CNBC for Small Business
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Updated: June, 2026
Author: Andy LaPointe - Co-Founder of Traverse Bay Farms
Quick Summary
Traverse Bay Farms was recently featured in CNBC for how local retailers continue to thrive amid national retail shifts. The article spotlighted owner Andy LaPointe and the company's two Northern Michigan retail stores, reinforcing brand trust, local economic impact, and wellness innovation.
At-a-Glance
- Featured in: CNBC.com — “As Chain Stores Fail, Mall Vacancies Rise — Local Business Owners Score Rare Real Estate Offers”
- Company: Traverse Bay Farms, family-owned in Bellaire, Northern Michigan
- Retail locations: Bellaire and Elk Rapids, Michigan
- Awards: 38+ national food awards for quality and flavor
- Products: Tart cherry juice concentrate, cherry capsules, fruit salsas, dried cherries, and more
Michigan Small Business Thrives as National Chains Close
When national retail chains shutter stores, many communities face empty spaces and fewer local shopping options. But in Northern Michigan, one small business is showing how to fill that gap and catching the attention of major media outlets in the process.
Traverse Bay Farms, a Bellaire-based gourmet food and wellness company, was recently featured in CNBC. The article spotlighted owner Andy LaPointe, who operates two Traverse Bay Farms retail outlets in Bellaire and Elk Rapids. The story illustrates how small, locally rooted brands are revitalizing community commerce and proving that local entrepreneurship is alive and well in Michigan.
Related: Traverse Bay Farms Receives Special Tribute from the State of Michigan
About Traverse Bay Farms
What We Are Known For
- 38+ national food awards for gourmet and fruit-based wellness products
- Tart cherry juice concentrate, cherry capsules, fruit salsas, and dried cherries
- All made using as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible
- Never importing cherries from overseas
How Traverse Bay Farms Thrives Locally and Nationally
While many food companies have moved entirely online, Traverse Bay Farms continues to invest in its retail presence. Each store acts as a local hub where customers can discover natural health products, sample award-winning foods, and learn more about the benefits of tart cherries.
Andy LaPointe, Co-Founder of Traverse Bay Farms
“We are proud to be a part of Michigan agriculture and small business innovation. Our growth is about more than products, it is about keeping communities connected through local flavor and wellness.”
This approach blends entrepreneurship with authenticity. By pairing e-commerce reach with community roots, Traverse Bay Farms has built a model of sustainability that appeals to both local shoppers and national health enthusiasts.
Why Local Businesses Win When Chains Close
- Local businesses offer personal, relationship-driven customer experiences.
- Community roots create loyalty that national chains cannot replicate.
- Local sourcing reduces environmental impact and supports regional agriculture.
- Authentic brand stories resonate with customers who value transparency and purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why People Trust Traverse Bay Farms
- Recognized with 38+ National Awards for Flavor Excellence
- Featured in CNBC, GoDaddy, and other national media
- Family-Owned, Community-Focused Company in Northern Michigan
- Michigan-Grown Ingredients, Trusted Nationwide
Additional Resources
Explore Traverse Bay Farms Award-Winning Products
Michigan-grown, nationally recognized, and shipped nationwide. Discover why CNBC and 38+ award judges trust Traverse Bay Farms.
Shop Traverse Bay Farms