BJ’s, Cake Boss Bow Sweet Treats

BJ’s Wholesale Club has joined forces with Buddy Valastro, star of the hit TLC reality show “Cake Boss” and owner of Carlo’s Bake Shop in Hoboken, N.J., to introduce two cakes – including one exclusive item -- available starting this week at all 195 BJ’s clubs across 15 states.

The fourth-generation baker’s creations now at BJ’s Fresh Bakery are “Da Bomb,” featuring chocolate layers and caramel icing, and the “Badda Bloom,” a chocolate-and-vanilla layer cake with buttercream frosting. A BJ’s spokeswoman told Progressive Grocer that “Da Bomb” was exclusive to the chain.

To roll out the new cakes, the Natick, Mass.-based retailer and Valastro hosted a "taste-off" at the BJ’s in North Bergen, N.J., (left) which included a meet-and-greet with fans and free samples.

Valastro worked with Jackson, Mich.-based Dawn Foods to create a cake line that met his exact specifications. He'll add fondant cakes and cupcakes and to the line in the coming year.

BJ’s plans to offer more Cake Boss branded items, including the forthcoming fondant cakes and cupcakes, at its in-store bakery in the near future, according to the company spokeswoman.