Janaury 14, 2026 -The Kroger store in aiport plaza is popping with success after opening its in-store popcorn stand on December 10, quickly becoming a top performer across multiple states.
The route 36 location was the first Kroger popcorn stand to open in Illinois, following the concept’s launch in Indiana. A Peoria location opened the following day. Since then, Kroger store manager Jeff Tate says the stand has risen to number one in sales across the division, which includes Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Missouri.
Jamie Reeter serves as the popcorn lead at the store and said the stand has been met with strong customer demand. Popular flavors such as caramel, caramel mix, cheddar, and white cheddar regularly sell out.
As part of a community partnership, Decatur Public Schools students, and members of Eisenhower High School’s Principal’s Advisory Council were invited to create a custom popcorn blend for Eisenhower High School. Junior Nariah Harper, Sophomore Amarion Haney, freshman Ya’Haha Reed, and Junior Braelyn Taylor sampled a variety of flavors before selecting their final combination: 5 Alarm Cheddar, White Cheddar, and Sweet Chili. The mix was named “Panther Spice,” a nod to the school’s mascot and the bold, savory flavor profile.
Kroger confirmed that Panther Spice will be available for purchase at the route 36 location, and Mt. Zion High School is expected to create its own custom popcorn mix in the near future.
The popcorn stand offers more than 30 flavors, including bacon, hot Cheeto, jalapeño, churro, banana, pumpkin spice, dill pickle, Oreo, salt and vinegar, garlic parmesan, ranch, birthday cake, blue raspberry, habanero maple bourbon, pizza, and kettle corn, among others.
Pricing includes $4 for a medium container, $7 for a large, and $15 for a giant bag of buttered popcorn.
Kroger says the success of the popcorn stand highlights both customer enthusiasm and the impact of community partnerships that bring local students into the experience.
