Lochel’s Bakery in Hatboro Thrives with Election Cookie Poll

Lochel’s Bakery in Hatboro, Pennsylvania, is experiencing a surge in orders for its election-themed cookie poll, which began in 2008. Customers purchase cookies that represent presidential candidates and count as votes in a non-scientific poll. As of now, sales for the upcoming election are outpacing previous years, with significant demand from across the country.

In Hatboro, Pennsylvania, Lochel’s Bakery has garnered significant attention for its unique election-themed cookie poll, initiated in 2008. This charming tradition involves customers purchasing specially decorated sugar cookies that represent presidential candidates, with the cookies effectively serving as votes in a lighthearted poll. With demand surging, orders have flooded in from across the nation, including Alaska, as voters eagerly participate in the cookie tally ahead of the approaching election on November 5, 2024. These 4-inch round cookies are adorned with candidate-specific sprinkles — blue and white for Democrat Kamala Harris, and red and white for Republican Donald Trump. Since its inception, the cookie poll has correctly predicted the outcome of the first three presidential elections before missing the mark in 2020, which saw Trump lose to Democrat Joe Biden. Kathy Lochel, a member of the bakery’s third-generation family ownership, remarked that cookie sales spiked in 2020, highlighting the fun, non-scientific nature of the poll, stating, “It’s just a fun, non-stressful tally that we’re taking. It’s definitely not scientific. It’s just a delicious way I say to take the pressure off with what is going on with the election.” This election cycle has seen unprecedented demand, with cookie orders currently on backorder for three to four weeks due to overwhelming interest. The bakery has strategically positioned itself within a crucial battleground state, which potentially enhances its visibility and sales, particularly in the populous suburbs of Philadelphia. In a delightful intersection of politics and community spirit, customers continue to purchase cookies with camaraderie, irrespective of their political affiliations. As Kathy Lochel observed, “The people that are coming into our store, whether they’re buying red or blue cookies, they’re friendly, they joke, they laugh, they buy other things.”

Lochel’s Bakery, established in Hatboro, Pennsylvania, has become a notable player in local political culture through its innovative cookie polling system. Initiated as a playful endeavor during the 2008 elections, the bakery began selling cookies designed to represent presidential candidates. Over the years, the cookie poll has drawn considerable participation and interest, transforming into a unique and entertaining method for community members to express their political preferences nontraditionally. The phenomenon reflects broader societal trends where food and fun intersect with political engagement, particularly in a politically diverse environment such as suburban Philadelphia.

In conclusion, Lochel’s Bakery has successfully transformed a lighthearted cookie poll into a community engagement platform that elevates the election experience. As orders soar ahead of the 2024 election, the bakery not only serves delicious treats but also fosters a sense of friendly competition among shoppers. The cookie poll continues to draw national interest and prompts discussions on political preferences in a manner that is engaging and enjoyable.

Original Source: whyy.org