In late April, Noo-Kayet Investments, on behalf of the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, finalized the purchase of Minder Meats, a Kitsap County meat distribution and retail company that started in 1943.

Minder Meats is one of only two USDA-approved meat processors in Western Washington and, up until its purchase by NKI, had been owned and operated by the Minder family, per a tribal news release. From its storefront and facility in Bremerton, the business serves families, restaurants, grocery stores, and other commercial operations from Tacoma to Port Angeles. They specialize in fresh, locally-sourced beef, pork, chicken, and seafood.

NKI, responsible for managing and sourcing business and acquisition opportunities for the PGST, became interested in Minder Meats based on its reputation as one of Kitsap’s longest-running and continuously profitable small businesses, per the release. Additionally, its capacity for seafood processing creates an opportunity to more robustly serve tribal fishermen as a retail and wholesale buyer. PGST Natural Resources staff will serve as expert consultants to NKI and Minder Meats during the establishment of this line of business.

“The purchase of Minder Meats creates a tremendous opportunity for our tribe,” PGST Chairwoman Amber Caldera said. “It helps us directly support treaty rights and the livelihoods of our tribal members who depend on fisheries. At the same time, we are proud to be able to continue the legacy of such a storied and well-respected Kitsap community business.”

Minder Meats was founded by George Minder and his brothers during World War II, the release states. Their first customer was the U.S. Government. After the war, George maintained ownership of the company, which has served the community through four subsequent generations, including the most recent owner/operator, Jim Carlson.

“For 83 years, my family have been the owners and caretakers of this company. We are so grateful to the hundreds of employees and countless customers who have contributed to its survival and success. None of this would be possible without them,” Carlson said. “I can’t imagine a better group of people to take over Minder Meats than NooKayet and the tribe. They understand the importance of tradition and respect the legacy my family helped to build. At the same time, they want to take the business to another level for the future, which is exciting.”

Under NKI’s management, initial operational direction for Minder Meats includes addressing any maintenance issues and performing overall site improvements. They are also looking to add positions to help grow the business. NKI is also planning for a remodel of Minder Meats’ meat and seafood retail shop and the addition of an on-site commercial kitchen, per the release. In the future, they hope to offer a menu of lunch specials, potentially including sandwiches, burgers, and more.

“This is a landmark acquisition that enhances our tribe’s food sovereignty and economic independence,” NKI board chair and PGST tribal member Alicia Fulton said. We are committed to fostering a sustainable and thriving economy for our tribe while ensuring our resources are utilized to maximum benefit for our community.”