Archway Cookies

Archway Cookies began as Swanson Home Style Cookies in 1936. The company was founded by husband-and-wife team Harold and Ruth Swanson in their garage in Battle Creek, Michigan. They started by selling oatmeal cookies and donuts, but when World War II caused ingredient shortages, they discontinued the donuts and focused on making cookies instead, even going so far as to increase their offerings to 15 different varieties. The company continued to thrive in the postwar period and in 1954, the name was officially changed to Archway Cookies to help differentiate the brand from Swanson, which was becoming well-known for TV dinners and frozen foods. Over time, new cookies were added to the lineup. The company also changed hands and was no longer family-owned. In April 2008, Archway's director of finance discovered accounting discrepancies. This kicked off a series of investigations and lawsuits; Archway, Catterton Partners, the private equity firm that had purchased the company in 2005; Insight Group Holdings, Archway's management firm; and certain board members, executives, and managers were ultimately sued for fraud. Former employees also brought a class action lawsuit against the company after its closure. However, in December 2008, Lance Inc., a snack food company based in North Carolina, purchased Archway Cookies and swiftly reopened one of the bakeries. Many former employees were rehired and by March 2009, Archway Cookies were back on store shelves. Notably, Lance, Inc. streamlined the products to include 21 cookie types. While the recipes and branding have been updated over time, Archway Cookies remain a popular and nostalgic treat for many people today and offerings like Soft Iced Oatmeal Cookies and Crispy Gingersnap Cookies are still fan favorites.