Stacy’s Pita Chips
Stacy's Pita Chips is an American snack brand specializing in baked pita chips and other crunchy snacks. Born from a Boston food cart, the company grew into a national brand and now operates under PepsiCo's Frito-Lay division.
The Story
Stacy's Pita Chips was founded by Stacy Madison in Boston in the mid-1990s. She started by running a sandwich cart called Stacy's D'Lites in the Boston Public Market, and gave away baked pita bread chips to customers waiting in line. The chips were made from leftover pita bread, seasoned simply with salt and oil, and baked until crispy.
The chips became so popular that customers began asking to buy them directly. Stacy turned the giveaway into a wholesale business, landing shelves at Trader Joe's and eventually expanding to national grocery chains across the United States. The brand's growth was fueled by word-of-mouth and a genuine product that stood out in the crowded snack aisle.
In 2006, the company was acquired by PepsiCo's Frito-Lay division, but Stacy Madison remained involved as a brand ambassador for several years. Under Frito-Lay, the brand expanded its flavor lineup while maintaining the original recipe's quality and simplicity.
Today, Stacy's Pita Chips is known for flavors like Simply Naked, Parmesan Garlic & Herb, Cinnamon Sugar, and Multigrain. The brand remains headquartered in Randolph, Massachusetts, and continues to be a favorite among consumers looking for a satisfying, better-for-you snack made with simple ingredients.
Key Facts & Metrics
Products & Services
Stacy's Parmesan Garlic & Herb Pita Chips
Baked pita chips flavored with Parmesan cheese and a blend of garlic and herbs. A savory alternative to plain chips.
Stacy's Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips
Sweet baked pita chips dusted with cinnamon sugar. A dessert-style snack that pairs well with coffee or tea.
Stacy's Simply Naked Pita Chips
Stacy's original baked pita chips, seasoned with sea salt. Made from real pita bread twice-baked for crunch. Non-GMO verified.
Company Timeline
1996 — Founded as Stacy's D'lites
Stacy Madison started Stacy's D'lites in Boston, selling sandwiches and handing out free baked pita chips from a food cart.
1997 — Sandwich cart launch
Stacy Madison and a business partner opened a sandwich cart in Boston. The free pita chips became the real draw.
2006 — Acquired by PepsiCo/Frito-Lay
Stacy's Pita Chips was acquired by PepsiCo's Frito-Lay division, becoming part of one of the world's largest snack portfolios.
2020 — National retail distribution
Stacy's Pita Chips became a staple in national grocery chains, with flavors like Simply Naked and Cinnamon Sugar available nationwide.
2024 — Stacy Madison's Advice Line episode
Stacy Madison appeared on How I Built This Advice Line to discuss founding Stacy's Pita Chips and her journey from social work to snack brand founder.
