Across the country, DECA chapters are finding creative ways to transform Otis Spunkmeyer cookies into more than a sweet snack - they’re turning them into thriving school-based enterprises (SBEs).
Two standout examples, Frankfort DECA in Indiana and Broad Run DECA in Virginia, showcase how cookies can fuel both profits and student learning, while each program puts its own unique spin on operations.
Frankfort DECA: A 25-Year Tradition
For over two decades, Frankfort High School has operated DECA Cookies, a beloved school tradition. Each day, 13 Strategic Marketing seniors run the business in just a single class period. Freshly baked Otis Spunkmeyer cookies—chocolate chip, carnival (M&M), sugar and snickerdoodle—are packaged into bags of two and sold for $1.00 during the busiest passing period.
By mid-year, the chapter generally has generated over $2,600 in profit toward its annual goal of $10,597. The business thrives on efficiency: students rotate through every role, from general manager to marketing coordinator, learning inventory management, customer service and social media promotion.
Frankfort DECA’s focus on market analysis—surveying students, tracking demand by flavor, and adjusting pricing—ensures the cookie cart continues to be a hit year after year.
Broad Run DECA: Expanding the Cookie Brand
At Broad Run High School, DECA students have built their Cookie Cart into a dynamic operation that runs Monday through Friday, serving students across multiple lunch shifts.
Like Frankfort, the team relies on Otis Spunkmeyer’s ready-to-bake dough for consistent quality and variety. Still, Broad Run has taken the concept further, incorporating creative packaging, themed promotions, and an expanded menu that includes seasonal flavors.
Their emphasis is on branding and visibility. The Cookie Cart has become a central part of the school culture, with students eagerly awaiting limited-time offers or themed giveaways. In addition to the cart, Broad Run has explored partnerships within the school to increase distribution and broaden its reach, making the cookies more than just a snack - they’re an experience tied to school spirit and DECA’s entrepreneurial leadership.
Similarities and Differences: Two Models of Sweet Success
While both chapters rely on Otis Spunkmeyer products to ensure quality and consistency, their models reflect different approaches:
- Frankfort DECA emphasizes efficiency within a short time frame, focusing on streamlined operations and data-driven decisions.
- Broad Run DECA emphasizes branding, creative promotions and visibility across multiple touchpoints in the school day.
What unites them is the hands-on learning. Students in both programs manage inventory, calculate profits, rotate through leadership roles, and directly apply classroom lessons to a real business environment. Mistakes become teachable moments, successes build confidence and the cookie cart becomes a launchpad for future entrepreneurs.
The Bigger Picture
For Frankfort and Broad Run, Otis Spunkmeyer cookies are more than just baked goods - they’re the cornerstone of enterprises that give students real-world business experience.
Whether it’s Frankfort’s long-standing efficiency or Broad Run’s focus on branding and school culture, both chapters demonstrate the power of combining product consistency with DECA’s mission of preparing emerging leaders.
Learn more about starting an SBE, find resources for your SBE and earn certification for your SBE at deca.org/sbe.
