Business center honors founder of cookie firm
By Walt Frank, wfrank@altoonamirror.com
POSTED: June 5, 2008
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W. Zane Feathers, president of Shirley’s Cookie Co. Inc., Claysburg, will receive the award at the SBDC’s annual awards luncheon at the university.
Feathers, who started the business in 1967 when he purchased a Duncansville-based doughnut shop and restaurant, said he was surprised to be selected.
“I am still not sure I comprehend why I got the award. I feel quite honored,” Feathers said. “I feel very gratified to the organizations behind this, such as the St. Francis University Small Business Development Center. They have been very helpful to us in our expansions over the years.”
Feathers was selected from among six nominees for the award, said Ed Huttenhower, SBDC director.
‘‘This year we probably had some of the best nominees we have ever had,’’ Huttenhower said. ‘‘Zane was selected because of what he has done in transforming Shirley’s Cookie Co. since he bought it in 1967.’’
Shirley’s Cookies has grown and expanded numerous times and concentrated on manufacturing cookies for sale by large retailers.
Moving to its present location in the William Ward Industrial Park in 2003, the company has seen revenues triple and employment grow from 24 to 94.
Shirley’s products are sold by grocery and convenience store chains throughout the eastern United States, and the company continues to explore areas to expand its product lines and customer base.
Others to be honored at the luncheon include:
n Michael DelGrosso of DelGrosso Foods Inc., Tipton, as small business exporter of the year;
n G. Shaun Akers of Akers Funeral Chapel, Saxton, as young entrepreneur of the year;
n Daniel Nead of Omega Bank (now First National Bank of Pennsylvania) of Huntingdon as financial services advocate of the year;
n Amy Seltzer of Seltzer Financial Services, Altoona, as women in business advocate of the year.
Mirror Staff Writer Walt Frank is at 946-7467.
