Last updated on June 13th, 2024
Martin’s Famous Pastry Shoppe Inc. President James “Jim” Martin has been recognized as the 2018 “Business Person of the Year” by the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.
This award is given annually by the chamber to recognize one leader in the community for their business experience, exceptional accomplishments, community involvement and contribution to the economic growth and development of the area. The chamber has presented the Business Person of the Year award since 1987.
The Chamber recognized Martin for working in and serving the local community for many years. He was in the fourth grade when his parents, Lloyd and Lois Martin, transformed their garage into a small bakery. He would pitch in and help them after school and on Saturdays. Their first customers were friends and neighbors who bought their potato rolls in local farmers markets. In the 1970s and ’80s, Martin’s Famous Potato Roll products forged a new category in supermarkets.
Today, Martin, his wife, Donna, and their four children manage the Martin’s Potato Roll and Bread business, along with MFPS Transport. The company’s main bakery employs 500 people, and a second bakery, located in Valdosta, Georgia, employs an additional 300 people.
Martin spends his day taking care of others and has been known to say, “If you focus on taking care of others and helping them get what they need, you will always be taken care of.”
“I have worked for Martin’s for more than 30 years. Jim’s inspirational leadership has expertly guided our business to new heights. He not only strategically considers the direction of our business, but he really cares about every person working with Martin’s. He sees the best in people and endeavors to know everyone’s name. That is evidence of true character, and we are very happy to see him recognized,” says Sherry Flair, director of finance.
The company’s generosity ensures that countless charities are supported each year. Through product donations, financial or resource support, Martin’s donates to more than 300 charities and organizations, such as homeless shelters, food banks, after-school programs and disaster relief (both in Chambersburg and around the world).
Additionally, Martin regularly works with groups such as the American Bakers Association and the Grain Foods Foundation, which in turn work with the government to set standards to improve the baking industry and to educate the public about the health benefits of grains.
“Jim Martin and his team have created an amazing success story, and they are constantly donating their products as well as time to worthwhile causes in our community,” said Kim Crider, chair of the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “We are honored to present this award to him and appreciate his business’ dedication to our region.”
Keep reading:
Produce Innovation Award Winners Recognized At United Fresh 2018
