Blondery to close Peekskill NY location, pivoting focus to e-commerce

Get ready to say goodbye to Blondery’s retail operation in Peekskill.

The bakery, which specializes in blondies, cookies and 11-layer cake jars ‒ and which started as an e-commerce site in 2018 ‒ will close Aug. 25.

Owner Auzerais Bellamy, who trained in the South of France and worked at the famed Bouchon Bakery, part of the Thomas Keller restaurant group, as well as Per Se, Daniel and Brooklyn’s Pies ‘n’ Thighs, said despite the challenges of Hurricane Ida and the pandemic, her business has continued to thrive, primarily through its e-commerce operations, which account for over 75% of its income.

Retail sales and foot traffic, however, are another story and have been an issue since opening at 922 Main St. in Nov. 2022.

The decision to close the retail store, she said, was not made lightly. Market conditions and local demographics played a significant role. similarly, efforts to expand the product line and enhance the retail experience did not yield desired results. This, despite efforts to build a local community, including participation in festivals, partnerships with small businesses and donations to local law enforcement and city officials.

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Blondery will continue to operate its manufacturing and distribution from Peekskill and will maintain its online presence, shipping products nationwide and participating in pop-up events. The focus will now be on enhancing the online business and meeting customers where they are, Bellamy said.

Limited product offerings, such as donuts and cinnamon rolls, will be available during special open house hours. Customers are encouraged to subscribe to the Blondery newsletter or to the bakery’s social media for updates.

Said Bellamy: “Blondery expresses gratitude to the Peekskill community and all customers who have supported the business. The next chapter promises to be exciting, with continued dedication to delivering high-quality products and exceptional service.”

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Jeanne Muchnick covers food and dining. Click here for her most recent articles and follow her latest dining adventures on Instagram @jeannegochnick or via the lohudfood newsletter.