#USA #Frederick #Organic Milk #South Mountain Creamery #dairy delivery

South Mountain Creamery Unveils Exciting Growth Initiatives

In a bold move to expand its reach and offerings, South Mountain Creamery, a farmer-owned enterprise in Maryland, has recently announced a strategic plan aimed at enhancing home grocery delivery, wholesale avenues, and on-farm experiences. This initiative not only reflects their commitment to quality dairy products but also highlights their deep agricultural roots and focus on sustainability.

A Legacy of Commitment

For over four decades, the Sowers-Brusco family has dedicated themselves to providing exceptional dairy and farm products at South Mountain Creamery. Their family business culture is a rarity in today’s challenging economic environment for agricultural enterprises. CEO Tony Brusco emphasizes their dedication to fostering responsible farming practices and establishing meaningful connections through high-quality food: “Our roots have always been deeply agricultural, and our focus will continue to center on responsible and sustainable farming practices.”

As the demand for local groceries surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, South Mountain Creamery seized the opportunity to broaden its home delivery service, which now includes farm-fresh milk, ice cream, and produce from local farmers. This expansion enabled the company to add delivery routes and significantly grow its workforce from 162 to 198 employees over a span of three years.

Expanding Horizons

The creamery's commitment to local agriculture is effectively demonstrated through its partnerships with a network of farmers and small businesses. Currently, 93 individual farmers are part of the supply chain, providing customers with access to a diverse selection of quality, locally made products, with staples such as milk, butter, and eggs. This collaborative approach not only supports the local economy but also ensures a shorter supply chain, resulting in fresher produce for customers seeking healthy options.

In addition to delivery services, South Mountain Creamery has focused on expansion through strategic acquisitions, including Washington Green Grocer and Oberweis Dairy’s home delivery routes, cementing their foothold in Maryland, D.C., and extending well into Northern Virginia and beyond. Just last year, the creamery marked impressive growth, selling 2.9 million gallons of milk, climbing from 1.9 million in 2022.

The Organic Initiative

A significant milestone for South Mountain Creamery has been the acquisition of the Trickling Springs Organic milk operation and its bottling plant. This move has allowed the company to introduce a new line of organic milk sourced from a Pennsylvania co-op, bolstering ice cream production capacity and enabling the re-hiring of previously laid-off workers. With these advancements, products are now available not only through their home delivery but also in major grocery chains like Wegmans and Harris Teeter, and sports venues like Camden Yards.

Connecting with the Community

Amidst this growth, South Mountain Creamery remains steadfast in its pursuit of community engagement. The farm continues to host tours, calf feedings, and educational experiences to foster connections with their clientele. These initiatives emphasize transparency and the belief that quality food starts with understanding its origins. The creamery welcomes thousands of visitors each year, providing an avenue to educate the public about where food comes from and how it’s produced.

However, to concentrate on its core business strategies, South Mountain Creamery has announced that it will not renew its lease for the Ice Cream Shop located in Downtown Frederick, Maryland, after eight successful years. The focus, as stated by Brusco, will now shift towards enhancing home delivery, expanding wholesale services, and enriching the customer experience at their farm.

Conclusion

As South Mountain Creamery embarks on this growth journey, their commitment to quality, community, and sustainable practices remains unwavering. By prioritizing local partnerships and innovative approaches in their operations, the creamery is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for organic and locally sourced products, ensuring their legacy and the future of family-owned farming in the region remains secure.