The iconic Peace Love Pickles, renowned for its innovative sandwiches replacing traditional bread with pickles, is set to navigate a period of change as it bids farewell to its current retail space.
Operating out of Simply Station in Haddon Heights for the past few months, the pickle-centric eatery faces a transition as Simply Station is scheduled to permanently close in mid-December. The beloved pickle products will no longer be available at Simply Station starting next week.
However, Katherine Cohen, the owner and “head pickle proprietor” of Peace Love Pickles, reassures patrons that this isn’t the end. Despite the closure of the current shop, the brand is set to endure in some form.
“At this moment, we’re taking a break from the brick-and-mortar setup and redirecting our focus towards wholesaling our pickle products and mixers,” explained Cohen in a statement to Patch.
While the fate of another physical location for Peace Love Pickles remains uncertain, Cohen hints at the possibility of a future presence in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or even out West.
Peace Love Pickles has garnered a substantial following over the years, boasting 55,000 Facebook followers. The unconventional sandwiches, featuring a variety of fillings between hollowed-out pickles, have become a viral sensation. From Italian deli meats to Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, the pickle creations have showcased the brand’s versatility and creativity.
The inception of Peace Love Pickles dates back to Katherine Cohen making pickle sandwiches for her diabetic mother at the family’s general store in Linwood. The sandwiches gained popularity after a customer ordered 10, and the brand continued to grow.
Originally known as Elsie’s, the flagship Peace Love Pickles location in Haddon Township opened its doors in 2019. The pickle-centric offerings gained internet fame, leading to franchise opportunities. However, franchised locations in Atlantic Highlands and Northfield experienced brief tenures. A family emergency prompted the closure of the Haddon Township store in the previous year.
Amid these challenges, the adaptable nature of Peace Love Pickles has shone through. The recent collaboration with Simply Station provided a lifeline, allowing the brand to continue serving its unique creations.
While the current retail chapter is closing, Cohen expresses gratitude for the opportunity to work with Lauren Cummins, owner of Simply Station, and her dedicated team. The pickle journey for Peace Love Pickles is far from over, and fans can look forward to new developments in the brand’s flavorful future.