Save the Tortillas

When I was approached by the “Save the Tortillas” people to help with their campaign I almost turned them down because I have never been a fan of tortillas. The fact that I am a fan of women-owned businesses and that this company, La Bonita Ole, was local I jumped on the bandwagon. La Bonita Ole sent me a package of their products so that I would know what I was writing about. The first thing I learned was, the reason I hadn’t been a fan of tortillas in the past was…I had never had a good one! Most tortillas I had eaten were dry and chalky. The La Bonita Ole Tam-x-ico’s Premium Gourmet Tortillas and Wrap-itz are delicious!

I want to tell you about some of the products and then I’ll fill you in on why we need to “Save the Tortillas”.

• Corn Tortillas-delicious, low-carb and low fat, great for snacking and making breakfast wraps.

• Traditional Flour Wrap-itz-perfect for making soft tacos for your family.

• 100% Stoneground Whole Wheat Wrap-itz- a healthy source of Omega-3, calcium and 10 whole grains.

• Sun Dried Tomato Wrap-itz-are my favorite! They are a good source of lycopene and calcium.

There are great serving suggestions and “how to wrap & roll” directions on every package.

In 1992, I started my tortilleria with $13,000 in savings and the belief that I could bring you the most fantastic tortillas outside Mexico. The journey to become the best tortilla maker in America has lasted 17 years. La Bonita Ole now supplies over 20 food retailers in 28 states, does over $12 million in sales, and employs more than 40 people. Many miracles have taken place along the way, and I believe that we can make another one happen. Together.

In 2008, my company was forced into Chapter 11 bankruptcy to satisfy lenders in the current credit climate. The move allowed La Bonita Ole to reorganize, continue paying its bills, meeting the payroll, and producing tortillas for you to enjoy. In fact, we are among a small percentage of viable companies in bankruptcy that are successful. However, the situation has become critical. SunTrust Bank may move to sell the company. We are a solid and profitable business in a growing industry. Under the present management. La Bonita Ole should continue making the best tortillas you have ever tasted.

By signing the petition, you’ll help keep my dream alive, save employees and ask SunTrust Bank to be a hero in the banking industry by supporting American entrepreneurial spirit. In today’s national financial crisis, we are a miracle that can come true.

La Bonita Olé Financial Highlights

1. We continue to grow despite the economy and chapter 11.
2. We have had positive cash flow every year except 2007 when growing pains related to expanding into new markets caused losses.
3. During the chapter 11 in 2008 we grew our sales by 9% and accomplished a $2.0M dollar positive financial turnaround.
4. This is a viable successful business and existing management has implemented an operational and financial turnaround plan that has is succeeding.

To find out more information about Tammy and La Bonita Olé, Check out the Taco Timeline and the Financials Info to your right.

America, Help us Save the Tortillas!

Here is the story as it appeared on our local news.

So what can you do?

1. Sign the petition to Save the Tortillas

2. Purchase La Bonita Ole Tortillas. Click here to see where you can purchase them.

3. Follow them and share their story on Twitter

4. Fan them on Facebook

Please do what you can to save this amazing woman-owned company. Thanks!