Customer Profile:
Search for a Better Peanut Butter Stock
This is the story of a family business born out of love and necessity and how it became successful with a little help from C.J. Dannemiller. Ashley and Chris Medders own and operate Medders Family Farm in Montevallo, Alabama, which sells produce, beef, and pork. Their journey began when their infant daughter was diagnosed with Celiac disease, an autoimmune condition where gluten consumption damages the small intestine. To help their daughter gain weight, the Medders sought the healthiest gluten-free foods, focusing on homemade products to avoid cross-contamination and problematic ingredients.
They accommodate us. They fixed things and worked with us to ensure we had a product safe for our daughter. I know I can count on them to be on top of it when we have a massive order coming out and we need the product.[from C.J. Dannemiller] is so outstanding.
Crafting a Unique Formulation
In 2013, the Medders began making small batches of peanut butter at home. Over the next two years, they refined their recipe, eventually creating a unique blend that delighted their daughter, friends, and family. As demand grew, people requested additional healthy ingredients in their peanut butter mix. By 2016-2017, interest had increased enough to warrant commercial sales.
A friend suggested they try selling at a local farmers’ market. Despite dreary weather and poor produce sales, they sold all 24 jars of peanut butter they brought. This success led to calls from customers and invitations to other farmers’ markets. The Medders customized equipment in their commercial kitchen to achieve their product’s signature smooth texture. Their persistence paid off, with 37,000 jars sold in 2024, now distributed across the United States, including Hawaii.
Finding the Perfect Peanut Partner
The Medders have sourced peanuts from various suppliers, including a special arrangement with Auburn University. For the past five years, they’ve partnered with C.J. Dannemiller, switching from a previous national brand due to pricing issues.
Their relationship with C.J. Dannemiller grew over time. “When we first spoke with them, they could not guarantee that their peanuts were gluten-free due to their manufacturing processes and the potential for cross-contamination, says Ashley Medders “After about a year, C.J. Dannemiller told us it had developed a formula for ensuring the peanuts were gluten-free, which involved using an old-style roasting process.”
A Flourishing Partnership
The partnership has strengthened since then. “They have a high-quality product for the price point, and I like supporting another family business like ours,” says Ashley. “They accommodate us. They fixed things and worked with us to ensure we had a product safe for our daughter. I know I can count on them to be on top of it when we have a massive order coming out and we need the product.”
So, has C.J. Dannemiller become an integral part of Medders Family Farm’s operation? “I have them on speed dial,” says Ashley.
About The C.J. Dannemiller Co.
C.J. Dannemiller is dedicated to delivering the freshest ingredients, quickest turnaround and best experience. See how we’ve impacted other retail businesses and food manufacturers. And contact us when you’re ready to connect with a bulk wholesale nut supplier that always puts the customer first.