ROCKFORD, Ill., June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — After securing a spot in Walmart’s highly competitive “Open Call” event, Fire Department Coffee is preparing to introduce its popular roasts to Walmart stores across the nation this June.
Founded in 2016, the veteran-owned company has seen remarkable growth recently. Its coffee products will now be available in over 2,300 Walmart stores, nearly half of the retailer’s U.S. locations.
Fire Dept. Coffee specializes in premium and innovative roasts, with a mission to support sick or injured firefighters. Their presence in Walmart marks a significant milestone, enhancing their ability to aid more firefighters and positively impact the lives of those who serve their communities. The initial products hitting Walmart shelves include FDC’s Original Medium Roast, Skull-Crushing Espresso, Shellback Espresso, and Black Cherry Bourbon Infused Coffee. Additionally, the Original Medium Roast, Skull-Crushing Espresso, and Shellback Espresso will be offered in single-serve coffee pods.
“We are incredibly excited for coffee enthusiasts to find Fire Dept. Coffee in Walmart stores,” said FDC founder and CEO Luke Schneider. “This opportunity will allow us to reach a wider audience and support more firefighters in need. Moreover, it’s generating more jobs here in Rockford.”
To meet Walmart’s supply demands, Fire Dept. Coffee has expanded its workforce at its roasting, packaging, and shipping facilities in Rockford, Illinois. This aligns with Walmart’s Open Call event’s goal, part of its “Investing in American Jobs” initiative, held each fall.
The Open Call event received over 13,000 applications, with about 1,000 invited to Bentonville to present their products. Out of these, more than 180 pitches, including Fire Dept. Coffee, earned the coveted Golden Ticket, securing their spot in Walmart stores.