Kate McAleer, MBA '22
Bixby ChocolateRockland, Maine
Chocolate with a Conscience
Kate McAleer, MBA '22, is on a mission to make chocolate that is as good for the environment as it is for the taste buds. Since opening Bixby Chocolate in 2011 on the waterfront in Rockland, Maine, McAleer has created products with ethically sourced ingredients that are clean, natural and delicious. From Bixby Bars to Pecan Cuties, McAleer loves “creating moments of indulgent joy.”
Bixby’s tinned chocolate sardines pay homage to Maine's storied sardine industry and contain exquisitely crafted dark or milk chocolate fish, molded to resemble the iconic sardine.
McAleer was named Small Business Administration Maine's Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2019.
Bixby’s partners with Project Puffin to benefit the iconic bird that graces Maine’s coastline.
Can’t-miss menu item?
Pecan Cuties
Inspiration for going into the food biz?
I wanted to make a change in the food business, as I saw a void of healthier options with real ingredients and no artificial colors and flavorings.
Most memorable chocolatier moment/experience?
One of the top experiences has been seeing the awesome way people gift our chocolates — from stocking stuffers to everyday indulgences, it is really special!
What has been your biggest challenge as a business owner?
Competing against extremely large companies.
Best part of being a business owner?
Having the creative freedom to develop unique flavors, experiment with ingredients and craft artisanal products that reflect my vision. It also gives me personal satisfaction bringing joy to customers and creating products that mark their special occasions.
How has your SJU education impacted you as an entrepreneur?
My MBA gave me a strong foundation in marketing and a good sense of business essentials.
Bixby’s chocolate sardines.
A tray of Valentine’s Day themed chocolates.
The on-site bean-to-bar factory at Bixby Chocolate.
Three varieties of Bixby’s chocolate bars.
Unknown or fun fact about your business?
We are located on the working waterfront of Rockland, Maine, and the entire street used to be filled with sardine canneries. We now make chocolate sardines and many customers come in and talk about the days when they or a family member used to work in the sardine canneries.
Favorite guest you’ve served?
We love all of our customers! I have very much enjoyed hosting our members of the U.S. Senate and Congress to show how we're making awesome chocolate here on the waterfront in Maine.
How would you describe your business to someone who has never been there before?
We are a craft chocolate manufacturer creating moments of indulgent joy!
SJU professor or class that had the most impact on your career trajectory?
I really enjoyed the SJU Italy study abroad trip and the corresponding class. I still think about the parmesan and balsamic vinegar factories we toured!
If you could make an SJU-themed meal or dish, what would you serve?
A Hawk bar!
Secret to a great meal?
Always go for dessert!
Follow Bixby Chocolate on Social:
