Lexington bakery finds new owners after struggle to sell business

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - Bluegrass Baking Company, a bakery local to Lexington, has officially been sold to new owners, according to the Lexington Herald-Leader. The founders, Jim and Francine Betts, have operated the bakery for 35 years, the Herald-Leader says. The founders first tried to make a sale in December 2025 after making the decision to retire. The sale fell through in January 2026, and Jim had to go back to work, according to the Herald-Leader. Jim recieved a call from an interested party after the first sale fell through. The Herald-Leader reports that he no longer had much hope to sell the bakery, but six months later, the bakery has been sold to Jasen and Kellie Fontaine. The Fontaines have lived in the Lexington area for 8 years, the Herald-Leader says. The new owners took over the business in the week of July 5. Both will be involved in day-to-day operations, according to the Herald-Leader. The Herald-Leader reports that Jim says he is confident that the bakery is being left in good hands. The menu and hours will remain the same and employees who want to stay have the opportunity to do so, the Herald-Leader says. Copyright 2026 WKYT. All rights reserved.