KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A recent cookie pop-up that drew crowds to downtown Keene is now sparking a broader conversation about supporting local businesses.

Johnny and Brittiny Walker, owners of B Bakes Deli and Cakes, joined My Keene Now & Next on WKBK Radio last weekend to talk about the now widely discussed what was dubbed locally “Cookie Gate” and what it means for the local business community.

The pop-up, hosted by national chain Crumbl Cookies, brought long lines to Railroad Square and sold out quickly two weeks ago—an event that caught the attention of both customers and fellow business owners. They have since returned and will host another pop-up event Friday.

“When I saw that, it kind of struck a chord with me, of why is this happening downtown?” Johnny said.

While acknowledging the buzz the event created, Walker raised concerns about the impact of temporary chain pop-ups on small, locally owned businesses that operate year-round.

“That’s why we get put back,” he said. “These companies who are coming in, taking Keene dollars, not putting them back in the community—they’re packing their car up, they’re leaving, putting their money elsewhere.”

In contrast, the Walkers emphasized their own mission to reinvest locally and build connections within the community.

“Everything we do is to be a part of and make this community better,” Johnny said, adding that their business collaborates with other local shops rather than competing against them. “We’re all chasing the same dollar… we can all do it together. And that’s what makes Keene great.”

Brittiny echoed that sentiment, highlighting the strength of the city’s small business network.

“Downtown is so rich with the good local bakeries, you know, fresh ingredients,” she said. “So many of the other local bakeries, coffee shops, tea shops—we’ve all reached out to each other and been like, ‘let’s support each other. Let’s root for our community.’”

The couple also pointed to their focus on quality and transparency, noting their efforts to use fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offer options like organic and gluten-free baked goods.

Beyond the immediate controversy, the Walkers said the situation underscores the importance of community support—especially as Keene prepares for the upcoming downtown reconstruction project.

“Now, more than ever… we need to support each other and make sure that we’re as strong as we can be,” Johnny.

Looking ahead, the pair shared plans to continue expanding their offerings, including catering services and new rotating specials. Brittiny noted that creativity remains a key part of their business model.

“Every week I try to do a different flavor,” she said. “I try not to run the same flavor too many times.”

Despite the challenges, both said their focus remains unchanged.

“We like doing what we’re doing, and we just want to keep doing it,” Brittiny said.

Listen to the full interview: