Green Island Bakery, a company known for its traditional Irish baked goods, is preparing to launch at Whole Foods Market. For founder Caroline Johnston, the moment represents a steady and thoughtful next step in the business’s growth—one shaped by a focus on product quality, operational control, and a clear sense of purpose.
Caroline grew up in Northern Ireland, where baking was a constant in her household. Her mother owned a small bakery, and many of the recipes used today come directly from her mom and grandmother. That early exposure to hands-on production, combined with the routines of a family-run food business, became the foundation for what would eventually become Green Island Bakery.
After relocating to the United States, Caroline turned her passion for baking into a business, founding Green Island Bakery with the goal of sharing her authentic Irish baked goods with a broader market. The company’s initial offerings included artisanal scones, breads, and pastries, each crafted with the same care and attention to detail Caroline learned from her family. As her products gained recognition, Caroline realized the importance of creating a solid foundation for growth.
In 2021, Caroline joined the Union Kitchen Accelerator, a decision that played a crucial role in shaping the future of Green Island Bakery. The Accelerator provided Caroline with the infrastructure and support needed to scale her business, including access to shared kitchen space, guidance on production, and assistance with distribution and marketing. One of the key advantages of the Accelerator was the opportunity for Caroline to own her own manufacturing, giving her full control over the production process and ensuring that her products met the highest standards of quality.
The resources and network provided by Union Kitchen helped Caroline refine her operations, expand her customer base, and position Green Island Bakery for growth. Through the Accelerator, Caroline gained access to a network of fellow entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and valuable partnerships. This support proved invaluable as she sought to secure new accounts, ultimately leading to her partnership with Whole Foods Market.
Whole Foods Market’s decision to onboard Green Island Bakery is a testament to the quality and authenticity of Caroline’s products. Known for its commitment to offering high-quality, locally sourced goods, Whole Foods is an ideal partner for Green Island Bakery. This partnership allows Caroline to share her products with a much larger audience, further solidifying Green Island Bakery’s position in the market.
The success of Green Island Bakery reflects a broader trend among Union Kitchen Accelerator members who have leveraged the program’s resources to scale their businesses and secure retail partnerships. Brands like Compass Coffee and Snacklins have grown significantly through Union Kitchen’s support, and Green Island Bakery is now following in their footsteps. The partnership with Whole Foods marks a major milestone in Caroline’s journey and opens doors to new growth opportunities.
As Caroline looks to the future, Green Island Bakery is poised to reach new heights. The brand’s commitment to preserving the authenticity of traditional Irish baking, combined with its ability to scale and meet the demands of larger retail partners, positions it for long-term success. Caroline’s passion for her heritage and her dedication to quality have been key drivers behind Green Island Bakery’s growth, and with the support of Union Kitchen, the bakery is set to expand its reach even further.
For Caroline, this is just the beginning. The launch at Whole Foods Market is a significant step in a journey that started with a deep love for her Irish roots and a desire to share that heritage with the world. With each new milestone, Green Island Bakery is expanding its impact, and Caroline’s story serves as an inspiring example of how passion, perseverance, and authenticity can drive success in the competitive world of food entrepreneurship.
As Green Island Bakery enters this exciting new chapter, Caroline’s unwavering commitment to quality and tradition will continue to be the heart of the brand. The partnership with Whole Foods Market is a powerful testament to the potential of small, independent food businesses to grow and thrive in the larger retail landscape. With Caroline at the helm, Green Island Bakery is poised for continued success and to bring the rich flavors of Ireland to even more customers in the years to come.
For more information on stories like Caroline's, check out Union Kitchen.