New Zealand-owned and operated ABE’S Real Bagels Ltd was founded in 1996, and today employs over 60 people. It all started twenty years ago with a ‘bagel pilgrimage’ in Chicago and New York, during which they learnt everything there was to know from street vendors and local bakeries, including how to steam bake the bagels to the authentic recipes and baking tips handed down by generations.
What is your company background, how did you start the business?
“During that ‘pilgrimage’ our taste buds, hearts and souls were awoken to the beauty of the bagel. We began life as a café bringing authentic bagels to Auckland’s CBD; we quickly grew a loyal following and began providing fresh bagels to supermarket chains nationally, before broadening our range to include Bagel Crisps and Bagel Bites as we grew.”
What are the current product range and variants and how do these products stand out in the market?
“A bagel is just a bread roll with a hole in it, isn’t it? Ah... No! Ask anyone who has tried a delicious steam-baked ABE’S Bagel and they will beg to differ. It’s that irresistible dense, chewy texture that makes them so distinct. An end result which can only be achieved using the finest Australian wheat flour, artisan baking techniques, careful proofing and then, finally, steam-baking to perfection aka ‘bagel heaven’.
We aim to ignite the passion behind bagel baking and highlight the taste benefits and versatility of choosing crafted bagels over a loaf of white bread. ABE’S Bagels are crafted and baked in small batches using only the best ingredients; they contain no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives and are also low in fat.
Our range consists of:
Bagels—The Natural, Perfectly Parmesan, Super Sesame, Cinnamon & Raisin, Magnificent Multigrain, Marvellous Minis. We also have gluten-free bagels in Original and Six Seed.
Bagel Crisps—These mouth-watering little gems are made by slicing, then seasoning ABE’S genuine steam baked bagels with gorgeous natural ingredients. Baked and not fried, they are healthier than regular potato chips, with 60 percent less fat. They’re also free from artificial colours, flavours, preservatives, cholesterol, added MSG, or any other nasties.
Bagel Crisps—Marlborough Sea Salt, Roasted Garlic, Caramelised Onion & Balsamic Vinegar, Marmite, Sour Cream & Chives.
Bagel Bites Multipacks—Marlborough Sea Salt, Pizza, Sour Cream & Chives, Roasted Garlic and Marmite.”
Has there been any recent company news?
“The biggest news this year is that ABE’S has just turned 20; to celebrate we are giving away a grand prize of a foodie weekend for two in Queenstown. Other exciting ABE’S news is that we have just launched bagels into the Australian market with over 900 Woolworths stores now stocking ABE’S Bagels. ABE’S have also come full circle in Sydney opening a new café - showcasing bagels. We are always looking at new ways to innovate. Our new Crisp for summer is collaboration with Culley’s Chipotle hot sauce which launches in September. ABE’S have a really fun company culture and a great team that are passionate about bagels and making a real difference in the business.”
What are the plans for the business moving forward? Is there any expansion on the horizon?
“We have some exciting plans and are looking at expanding the bakery facility.”
Where are your products currently available to buy, and are you looking at or wanting to expand your availability? If so, where would you like to see the product situated?
“ABE’S Bagels and Bagel Crisps are stocked nationally across New Zealand and Australia.”
