Beanie Brand Love Your Melon Ceases Operations

In a surprising move that has left fans speechless, a Minnesota-based apparel brand that has raised millions for cancer research is "pressing pause."

The company was founded in 2012 by Zachary Quinn and Brian Keller, then students at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. What began as a college project to provide a hat to every child battling cancer quickly evolved into a successful business with a strong philanthropic focus.

Beloved Minnesota Brand 'Love Your Melon' Presses Pause

Originally formed as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Love Your Melon transitioned to a for-profit company in 2016. Despite the shift, the company continued donating 50% of net profits to organizations supporting pediatric cancer research and therapeutic experiences for young patients and their families.

Love Your Melon's iconic "pom-and-patch" beanies helped catapult the brand into the spotlight. Collaborations with major names like Disney, Hello Kitty, and Sesame Street helped expand their reach and popularity.

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In a message posted to their website and social media, the company stated:

"After 12 and a half unforgettable years, Love Your Melon is taking a step back to reflect and redefine our mission and products."

While the message leaves the door open for a possible return, the company has officially ceased operations, and no new orders will be accepted. Existing orders will still be fulfilled.

A Legacy of Generosity

Before stepping away, Love Your Melon announced a final donation of $200,247 to their nonprofit partners. This brings their total charitable contributions to an impressive $10,057,087, not including the more than 200,000 beanies donated over the years.

Love Your Melon was acquired by Win Brands Group in 2022, a move intended to improve retail presence and operational efficiency. Despite those efforts, the company is now stepping away—at least for now. Here's hoping we see a comeback in the future. Their beanies will certainly be missed.

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