In a striking turn of fortune for the beleaguered Muddy Paws Cheesecake, a St. Louis Park-based bakery is now on the cusp of a sweet recovery after nearly closing for good last week. The popular bakery received a significant financial boost from CNBC personality Marcus Lemonis, who pledged to buy $40,000 worth of their iconic cheesecakes. Tami Cabrera, owner of Muddy Paws, indicated the generous purchase was earmarked for distribution to recipients she would select herself, translating to an approximate giveaway of 600 to 700 cheesecakes, as noted in a CBS News Minnesota report.
However, the struggles for Muddy Paws Cheesecake run deep, with Cabrera’s business facing a daunting $240,000 debt mountain to overcome. Beset by a series of challenges — from a crippling burglary in 2018 to the pandemic's ruthless economic blows, as reported by the Twin Cities Pioneer Press. The purchase by Lemonis, besides the infusion of cash, is viewed as critical help needed for the foundation of its recovery and sustainability.
Lemonis, famed for reversing the fortunes of flailing businesses on his TV show “The Profit,” made it clear that this move isn’t just philanthropy, but an opportunity to implement serious business reform. "The purpose of the process is to keep the business alive," he commented on Instagram, stressing the importance of "financial discipline, improved process etc," shaking up the business for the better.
Cabrera's outreach does not end with Lemonis's lifeline. She has turned to the public for support and so far, according to a CBS News Minnesota interview, more than $12,000 has been raised. Cabrera, buoyed by the community's response, appears optimistic about re-opening the bakery in January. "People have been amazing, coming forward and helping us from all different directions," she said, appreciative of the steady flow of assistance.
In Muddy Paws' three-decade history, they have sold over 480,000 cheesecakes and generously contributed to local causes, without Cabrera taking a salary, as revealed on the bakery's website. As the deadline looms to address their financial woes, contributions can be made at the official Save Muddy Paws Cheesecake page, an indication of the bakery's ongoing battle to keep its legacy alive and kicking.
