Ohio Popcorn Producers Adapt to Changing Market

From movie theaters to microwave bags, Ohio's popcorn industry faces challenges and opportunities.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Ohio is a leading producer of popcorn in the United States, known for its ideal climate and dedicated family farms. However, the industry faces declining acreage, the closure of processing plants, and increasing competition. Despite these challenges, a new wave of artisan popcorn producers is emerging, focusing on high-quality ingredients, unique flavors, and direct-to-consumer sales. As consumers demand more sustainability and innovation, Ohio's popcorn industry is evolving to meet changing market needs.

Why it matters

Ohio's popcorn industry is an important part of the state's agricultural economy, providing jobs and revenue. The decline in popcorn acreage and processing facilities raises concerns about the long-term viability of this iconic crop. However, the rise of artisan producers and consumer demand for sustainable and innovative products present opportunities for Ohio's popcorn farmers to adapt and thrive.

The details

Ohio's climate, with its ideal balance of temperature and growing season length, makes it well-suited for producing high-quality popcorn. However, popcorn farming faces unique challenges, such as the inability to use herbicides like Roundup, which increases the risk of crop damage. Recent data shows a concerning decline in popcorn acreage in Ohio, from 27,000 acres in 2017 to just 14,000 acres in 2022, attributed to the closure of processing plants and the difficulty for smaller farms to compete.

  • Between 2017 and 2022, planted popcorn acreage in Ohio dropped from 27,000 to 14,000 acres.
  • The annual Popcorn Festival in Marion, Ohio, celebrates the state's popcorn heritage each September.

The players

Brian Churchill

A popcorn farmer in Ohio since the late 1970s.

Chagrin Falls Popcorn

An artisan popcorn producer in Ohio with over 70 years of tradition, shipping its Ohio-grown popcorn worldwide.

Poppin' Off

An artisan popcorn company focusing on high-quality ingredients and unique flavors.

Popcorn Pizzazz

An artisan popcorn company that sells directly to consumers.

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What they’re saying

“If we move too far south, our quality goes down a little bit. If we go too far north, we don't have a long enough growing pattern. So this part of the Midwest grows some of the best popcorn in the world.”

— Brian Churchill, Popcorn Farmer

“If you scuff those kernels of corn going through the combine, then they become old maids in a microwave bag.”

— Brian Churchill, Popcorn Farmer

What’s next

As consumer demand for sustainable and innovative popcorn products continues to grow, Ohio's popcorn industry will need to adapt its farming practices and product offerings to remain competitive. Artisan producers and direct-to-consumer sales may play an increasingly important role in the future of Ohio's popcorn industry.

The takeaway

Ohio's popcorn industry is at a crossroads, facing challenges like declining acreage and processing facilities, but also opportunities in the form of rising consumer demand for high-quality, sustainable, and unique popcorn products. The state's popcorn farmers and producers must continue to innovate and adapt to ensure the long-term viability of this iconic crop.