Founded as Nmdesignz in 2011 and rebranded to Attollo Creative in 2024, this Fitchburg-based business is a marketing firm that specializes in Logo design, brand design, websites, signage, photography, videography and social media management, serving a wide range from industries from Non-Profit to Manufacturing.
Leader Nicole Murphy proudly notes “We are the most creative group you will ever work with. If you need something “out of the box” designed for your business, we are the people to call.” She adds “We are focused on quality, not quantity. Our company is small because we focus on providing a top-notch product as opposed to churning out work.”
Nicole loves doing business in North Central Massachusetts because “You get to see your designs in the field every day. If we lettered a truck, we see it drive by, if we designed a logo, we see it in an advertisement, its great seeing our designs help other businesses grow.” “I especially like doing business with local people,” she added when explaining why she likes being a member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce.
Attollo also proudly supports the community. “We are involved with Non-profits within the NCM area,” adds Nicole, “including the United Way of North Central MA, The Community Foundation of North Central MA and North Star Community Services.”
Attollo Creative shares an office space with one of its beloved clients in Fitchburg. Nicole feels “changing our name from Nmdesignz to Attollo Creative was their biggest professional achievement.” She feels the future is bright for Attollo. “We will continue to grow and provide quality pieces of work that clients love,” she said. “We will be known as the “go to” for any design work in the North Central Massachusetts area.”
Nicole credits her father as her strongest influence in business, “being a business owner himself for over 35 years!” “Also, many of my clients are a strong influence on me,” she adds, “I admire their dedication and passion to their business.”
As a marketing agency, Nicole doesn’t rely on traditional advertising to promote her business. She says the secret of their success is “Word of mouth and the dedication to providing the best possible product.”
Contact information: ; 978.430.1244
North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Community Support | Business Networking | Massachusetts Business | Business Spotlight
Domination Plumbing and Heating of Leominster started in business just 5 years ago servicing resident and commercial customers. They now service much of Central Massachusetts and even stretch into Boston. They have grown their business specializing in both service work for home and business owners, as well as new construction and remodels for residential homes and commercial buildings, according to owner Dominic Arsenault.
As a testimony to Domination’s achievements, Dominic notes “This company, from where we started of just myself as an employee to now over 15 employees, is my biggest professional achievement. Growing up I struggled with school and having my own company was really never in the vision. After working for multiple plumbing companies out of school and gaining meaningful experience, it gave me the passion to want to have my own business. It was not easy to get to where we are today but to see the growth over the years makes it all worth it. And knowing we have so much more growth left in this continuously evolving trade gives us something to always work towards.
In describing Domination’s work environment, Dominic says “I would describe our company’s culture as youthful and driven. We are a group of younger people that have the passion to serve our customers till they are completely satisfied.”
Supporting the local community is very important to the company, noted Arsenault. “We have increased our involvement in the local communities a lot over these past few years,” he added. “Last year we were excited to be part of the Johnny Appleseed Fest and will continue to have a booth there again this coming year. We joined the North Central Chamber to help assist us in being more involved during 2024 and the years to come. We are excited for all the new faces, business, and ventures that the Chamber will bring us.” He also noted that supporting the community was instilled on him at an early age. “Our mother was a Chamber member years ago when she was an independent sales director for Thirty One Gifts,” he added. “We would watch her to go all these events and form so many meaningful relationships, that we knew we needed to join as well to meet so many local people and businesses and start creating our own meaningful relationships.”
When asked who has been your or your company’s strongest influences, Dominic proudly stated “This company was originally influenced by our Dad and Uncle, who we watched growing up working tough blue collar jobs. Our Uncle owns his own HVAC business and seeing how well he supported his employees, himself and family made me realize I wanted to do that for others as well one day.”
When looking toward the future for his business, he feels it is “limitless.” “We are excited to grow our HVAC team over the next year, as well as grow our service area to cover more of Massachusetts,” he said. “Our vision one day is to be a, ‘one stop shop’ company that provides all home services.”
Domination relies on social media as one of its primary ways to promote the business. “We have had much success in promoting our business online through social media,” noted Arsenault. “We love to post funny videos on our Tik-tok and Instagram, as well as information videos to help with common issues on Facebook.”
The company website probably sums up their business style the best, noting “We saw that people were searching for dependable plumbing and heating service that wouldn’t let them down… From day one, our mission has been clear – do the job right the first time. So next time your pipes act up or your heater’s on the fritz, remember – we’ve got your back!” Contact info: ; 978.602.7547
Leominster | Domination Plumbing & Heating | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber Member | Massachusetts Business | Worcester County | Community Support
As the current largest insurance broker in Massachusetts, Chamber member HUB International isn’t your average insurance brokerage company that you meet or Google online.
With a strong sense of community for every town or city they have an office in, being able to give back to the community is a high standard for HUB International. In 2022, HUB New England donated over $500,000 to over 185 local charities in the area, including a $500 scholarship to a graduating high school senior in each town they have a physical office in.
Based off of the hub and spoke model, they continue to grow across the country, not just through acquisitions, but also through the local community.
“Growing organically through the community is something that is very important to us,” said Shawn McLaughlin, President and Chief Executive Officer of HUB International New England. “This is where organizations like the [North Central Massachusetts] Chamber of Commerce come in. We work with a lot of non-profits, and donate a lot of time to the communities we serve.”
Who is HUB International?
According to their website, HUB International’s company mission is “to protect and support the aspirations of individuals, families and businesses, to empower our employees to learn, grow and make a difference in their communities.”
Although HUB International has over 530 offices across North America and over 100,000 customers in New England alone, they provide the “small town feeling” when it comes to personalized, commercial, employee benefits or retirement and private wealth insurance, taking on the “one stop shop” mentality for insurance and risk management.
Because of the size, scope, and scale of HUB International, there isn’t a lot that they haven’t seen when it comes to protecting customers’ needs and assets.
“We focus on protecting the customer’s assets for themselves. A customer would have a local agent to contact, but also have a really strong resource network behind them. We’re able to take care of our client no matter the size or complexities that may be involved,” said McLaughlin. “The goal is to help people through difficult times, and protect them from risk.”
HUB International works with everyone, from the individual sole proprietor to the bigger, global companies, and all of the different divisions are designed to work with the customers that they service.
Truly being a part of the community
The mission of giving back is two-fold: to create awareness in communities and to give back to the local community.
Every year, HUB International supports and holds two annual golf charity outings, coordinated by Hub employee volunteers, where all of the proceeds go to charities as selected by HUB employees. HUB staff nominate and vote on at least three charities based on those nominations.
Additionally, HUB New England employees are serving on 43 boards in their community with local nonprofits, and 54 insurance boards supporting the industry. McLaughlin himself serves on the board of the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF.org). This accounts for 121 HUB employees donating their time outside of work at an estimated 2,926 hours per year for local charities within their area.
Strengthening that bond between businesses, individuals, and the community, HUB International is honored to be a part of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce.
“The [North Central Massachusetts] Chamber of Commerce is one of the more robust organizations that we work with,” McLaughlin said. “We like the ability to work with other businesses as well as direct to consumer. The chamber hits both of those areas, and it’s an easy way for us to tap into the community.
We’ve found that the [North Central Massachusetts] Chamber is a good connector for the local community and a really good way for us to stay in touch with other local businesses. It’s been an honor to be a part of the organization.”
Looking forward to a bright future
The start of the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the mindset and the way that HUB International does business. Currently, the insurance company has a hybrid environment, where employees will go into the office a few times a week, but are otherwise working from home.
With that being said, HUB has adopted the “first call resolution,” model in their personal lines department, meaning that the issue/situation should be resolved in one call, instead of the hassle of going back and forth with the customer.
“This first call resolution provides more laser focus to ensure our customers receive efficient and effective attention,” McLaughlin stated. “We are now looking at expanding that approach to some of our commercial divisions.”
HUB continues to see growth not only through acquisitions, but organically as well. HUB has a strong focus on niche specialties throughout the local areas, and most recently, the firm added retirement and private wealth management capabilities.
“Our world has gotten far more complicated, and our customers’ needs have shifted so they are much more specific to their business,” McLaughlin said. “As we evolve, instead of being a generalist, our firm developed industry specializations, while retaining our strong local presence.”
You can contact HUB International through their website at www.hubinternational.com to speak with an agent in your local area.
Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | HUB International New England | Insurance Broker in Massachusetts
When it comes to supporting the local community, you can look no further than Cassandra and Neil Abramson, owners of ECI Stores.
ECI Stores is the parent company of four local consignment shops in Leominster, Ma: Cutie Patuties, CP & Company, Cutiques, and Q for Teens. Established in October 1998, ECI Stores has grown into four locations that are conveniently right near each other.
“You can do all of your shopping in one day!” Abramson said.
Cutie Patuties specializes in gently used items, sized for newborns to preteens, which can be anything from clothing, toys, and baby equipment like strollers. Q for Teens is everything you can imagine that’s fashionable for a teenager and young adult, including clothing, bags, shoes, accessories, and more. According to the website, “Q is You! Q can be whatever style your young adult is all about: retro, vintage, hip, modern, romantic, or rustic – we’ve got it all!”
CP & Company provides a large selection of misses, petites, and plus size clothing for women and adults, which also includes bags, accessories, clothing, and more. Cutiques just recently celebrated their 10-year anniversary with their ribbon cutting this past March 2023. This division of consignment focuses on home décor and furniture, with everything from a kitchen table to lamps and lighting, wall hangings and more.
“One of the things that we really try to do is community involvement,” Abramson said. “More than most businesses, your local consignment store is your community, because that’s how we source our inventory – there’s no truck pulling up that has inventory in it. It all comes in from your neighbors: things that they’ve outgrown, things that they don’t need, and things that they are ready to move on from. It’s all community driven.”
When their daughter was approximately six months old, Abramson would visit her favorite consignment shop in Worcester and do all her shopping there for her newborn, until one day, that shop decided to go out of business. Disheartened, Abramson thought about where she was going to shop next. She decided right then and there that she was going to open her own store instead.
“I went to the car to call my husband and said, ‘I’m opening a consignment store!’”
As their child grew, her needs grew and expanded into the next size range, ECI Stores also expanded into the next steps: teen clothing, shoes, accessories, and more to what you see today.
With a focus on local, consignment stores live and breathe from the local community. Everything that you see in consignment stores is brought in by neighbors, family, and friends who have outgrown the item. These items could be useful for someone else and their family.
“We price it, make descriptions, put it on our website, and we can even ship directly to you if needed,” Abramson said. “There’s hardly any other business, especially a small business, that has about 3,500 unique, individual items on the website.”
And although it may be a lot of work, the Abramsons make it look easy, especially since after the COVID-19 pandemic nearly three years ago.
“We’ve been doing more online since the pandemic. It really provided us the time and necessity to be able to focus back on the business,” she said. “Businesses had the opportunity to either shut down and wait, or use the time productively and say, ‘what can we do for after?’ And that’s what we did, every single day.”
Abramson now provides online sales through their website, as well as Facebook and social media sales. “We reach our customers however they need it.”
Being able to think on their feet and find a solution for not just themselves, but for their customers as well is what makes ECI Stores unique, and providing sales online shows diversity in what they can offer as a consignment store.
“We try to keep everything locally driven – insurance, banking, office supplies, coffee…you name it. We do everything we can to support the North Central area and support local businesses,” she said.
As a long time member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, ECI Stores loves the ongoing educational opportunities. The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce keep their members updated on everything that you need when it comes to business. They also make sure that you have everything that you need to ensure that your business succeeds. Additionally, ECI Stores has an appreciation for the business connections with other local businesses and Chamber members.
“Everything that you do makes an impact, and the local store needs your help and support as well because they’re employing your neighbors and the people around you. You get a better product and a better relationship with local. If you can keep it local, it makes a difference.”
You can find out more about ECI Stores and their four locations on their website at www.ecistores.com or giving them a call at 978-534-6604.
Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Massachusetts Business | Massachusetts Economy | Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | Chamber of Commerce | ECI Stores | Cutie Patuties | Cutiques
With new growth comes new opportunities, and Joshua Allen Design (JAD) does exactly that with the recent launch of their kitchen cabinetry in 2022 and their mobile app, set to release to the public in Summer 2023.
Established 5 years ago by owner Joshua Allen Halterman, Joshua Allen Design is consistently reaching new heights. Originally a home-staging company, the business grew to the point where interior design started to take over, launching the business into a full-scale interior design firm. The current staff includes 3 full-time designers, a project manager, business manager, and marketing manager.
“I’m proud to say that over the course of five years, we’ve flipped the business on its head and turned it into an interior design-based business for all of central Massachusetts, but New England as well,” said Halterman. The business has designed in, but not limited to: Connecticut, Maine, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts.
“We help bring people’s spaces to life,” he said. “That is our number one goal.”
Designing with the Client in Mind
According to their website, JAD handles everything from kitchen, bathroom, living spaces, remodels, and renovations, and more. Based in Sterling Massachusetts, the business combines transitional style with a modern twist and a unique New England flair. They believe that listening, understanding, and building strong relationships with their clients take priority.
“Our goal is to make the interior design process as easy and as comfortable as possible for our clients, as well as attainable. This is something that I believe in firmly,” Halterman said. “Interior design should be as important as selecting a contractor, or plumber, whenever you are doing something to your home. Everyone should know an interior designer just like everyone knows a plumber or electrician.”
If a client is new to the interior design process, the design team will help to build you a roadmap and be a part of every step of the design process. The process begins with a design consultation, so that they can better understand what the client is looking for, and what their needs and goals are.
“Our goal is to ensure that our clients’ spaces are as unique and as personal as they are. We help them decorate, space plan, build out new rooms and go over architectural layouts and drawings, finishes and tiles, and much, much more,” he said.
The design process is unique to every potential client that JAD encounters, ensuring the full experience and customization that is unique as each individual looking to design their space.
COVID just could not stop JAD
When COVID-19 first arrived in the states, many small business owners were unsure of what to do. There were a lot of questions unanswered for many, and for some businesses, it was detrimental to their success.
“We were still relatively new at the time that COVID came around and were really impacted because our business is client-facing and in the clients’ homes,” Halterman said. And while Joshua Allen Design certainly felt that at the business’ core during a two-month furlough, the interior design firm came back stronger than ever. In fact, they were able to add to the team to provide the highest quality interior design services for their clients.
“We noticed this insane uptick of business out of nowhere. Clients would come to us in need of design because they need to redo their kitchen and have been putting it off for 10 years, and now that they’re staring at it every day, they need to have it done. There was a need for a client to have a comfortable living and working space because they were now stuck in the house all the time,” he said.
Additionally Halterman noted that the JAD team learned a valuable lesson with the importance of mental health as it relates to the design of a space. Having a messy, cluttered space or home that is outdated or worse can impact a person’s clarity of mind.
Most of the interior design firm’s clients are those that are looking to “rehab, refresh, or renovate” – those that just bought a home and are looking to add or update it, or those who have lived in their homes for a handful of years and looking to renovate. And for those clients who are looking to build their own home, JAD eliminates the extra step of coordinating with the contractor and eases the design process to ensure that progress is made the way you want it to be.
While the pandemic was scary for every small business owner, not only in Massachusetts but across the world, Joshua Allen Design benefited from it in the end as clients really wanted to connect with their spaces and make it their own.
New Opportunities Arise for Joshua Allen Design
In 2022, JAD started offering kitchen cabinetry from brand names Starmark Cabinetry and Mantra Cabinets, in addition to their interior design process. You can view the product information on their website here.
“We are proud to be able to offer kitchen design on top of interior design because we are truly a full-service interior design business. A lot of times, kitchen designers will only focus on cabinetry. So, what we do is we marry the two together, and we are thinking about how the bathroom relates to the living room as it relates to the kitchen, and how the flooring goes throughout. That’s a really rare business model to have,” said Halterman.
Additionally, Joshua Allen Design will be releasing their own branded mobile app in Summer 2023. This application will be free to everyone, and is an opportunity to not only grow the business, but also be in touch with clients and potential clients directly.
“What we are trying to do is bring exclusive content to the general masses about interior design – what are the best colors of the month, best pieces of the month, or best deals of the month?” stated Halterman. “Our clients are going to have a better user experience because our designs are presented to them in a client portal designed by us. The client portal will be at their fingertips instead of having to always be on their laptop.”
Rooted in the Local Community
A vital aspect of the Joshua Allen Design values is being rooted in the local community. A portion of all proceeds are donated to the Rise Above Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that responds to the growing need to give youth in foster care opportunities that will give them a sense of normalcy, provide comfort and build self-esteem. By funding individual wishes for requests like prom expenses, soccer registration, and clarinet lessons, Rise Above provides positive experiences for children in foster care.
Halterman himself sits on the Board of Directors for the Rise Above Foundation, and according to their website, JAD donates 100% of their time and expertise multiple times as year to install design projects for youth transitioning from foster homes to their own as they start college and enter adulthood. Last but certainly not least, JAD releases a candle every year in honor of the Rise Above Foundation.
You can learn more about the Rise Above Foundation on their website by clicking here.
Halterman added that they have the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to thank for being a part of the business’ growth.
“The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce has been a great resource because whenever you’re starting a business, it can be really hard to know who to talk to and who to connect with. The marketing opportunities have also been really great because we’ve been featured on their podcast, networking events, and it’s nice to get to know the community. The chamber is really business-oriented and we love that about them.”
If you are looking to refresh or design your space and home, look no further than the Joshua Allen Design team. You can contact JAD on their website, www.joshuaallendesign.com, or by giving them a call 508-901-9919 or emailing them at.
Sterling, MA | Joshua Allen Design | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber Member | Massachusetts Business | Worcester County | Member Spotlight
Clinton Savings Bank is much more than a community bank. With 6 branch locations (Berlin, Bolton, Boylston, Clinton, Sterling, West Boylston) and a seventh opening next year in Shrewsbury, Clinton Savings has a major impact throughout Central Massachusetts.
Clinton Savings Bank also has a rich history in the business community, opening its door 171 years ago in 1851. With 104 employees, the Bank takes great pride in its banking team.
“We are fortunate to have employees that believe in our mission and possess the skill set of reliability, problem-solving, willingness to learn and to ask questions and most importantly teamwork,” said Robert J. Paulhus, Jr., President & CEO. “Our average tenure is nine years with our longest employee being with us for 43 years.”
Paulhus added that Clinton Savings Bank’s work place culture is a collection of attitudes, beliefs and behaviors that make up the regular atmosphere in a work environment. “We know that a healthy workplace aligns employee behaviors and company policies with the overall goals of the Bank, he said. “After almost two years of disruption and social fragmentation we continue to create an environment that our employees can be happy and engaged in when working.
Since COVID, Paulhus noted the Bank has adapted to a more flexible hybrid work model, created new personal employee experiences – expanded the employee recognition programs and invested in new technology to help every employee feel more connected and inspired.
Recognizing the past two years have been rough for the business community, however Paulhus is very optimistic about the future. “Clinton Savings Bank is well-positioned for continued growth and success,” he said. “We will continue to enhance the customer experience, improve capabilities, and create opportunities for future growth. Our vision and mission statements keep us aligned to what’s most important — the well-being of our customers and the communities that we serve.”
Paulhus added that working in a diverse mix of towns in North Central Massachusetts helps represent a “community feel and bind which is what community banking is all about — having the best interest of others in mind and forming personal relationships with customers.”
He feels the Bank’s longevity and trust it has built with its customers is what sets Clinton Savings Bank apart from its competition. “We have shown our commitment to the people we serve by giving back, whether, it’s monetary or our employees volunteering at non-profit organizations or town events,” Paulus said. “We’ve never closed any of our locations and continue to invest in the towns we serve.”
He also echoed a great sense of pride in how Clinton Savings Bank supports the communities it serves. “We think of ourselves as ‘relationship’ bankers as opposed to ‘transactional’ bankers, said Paulhus. “We are an integral part of downtown and we know what it takes to be a community bank. Being a part of the local neighborhoods for over 170 years we have that specialized knowledge of our local neighborhoods and our customers.” A great example of that support is the Bank’s two full-service branches at Tahanto Regional High School and Nashoba Regional High School operated by the students in the banking program and managed by a CSB Relationship Banker.
While Clinton Savings uses multiple marketing channels to promote itself, Paulhus said “Word of mouth is marketing that you cannot beat.” “We are fortunate to have dedicated employees and a corporator body made up of some great local business people that are on the streets talking about the Bank and encouraging folks to try us,” he added.
Like many businesses today, Clinton Savings Bank relies heavily on digital marketing, as well. “Since the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic there has been a shift from using mostly traditional marketing to using mostly digital marketing.” Paulhus noted. “Tools like our website, email, social media, and web-based advertising, along with text and multimedia messages allow us to send more personalized offers and services to match people in different stages of their lives and needs, in real time with a lower cost per lead and higher conversion rate.”
Paulhus said the Bank’s customers are by far its strongest influence. “They have a huge influence on the success of the Bank or any business in today’s digital age,” he concluded. “They can share their experience either good or bad within seconds using online tools. Having a customer base that is loyal and engaged will drive revenues; without them, businesses cannot continue to exist.”
Clinton, MA | Clinton Savings Bank | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber Member | Massachusetts Business | Worcester County | Member Spotlight
Any business looking for answers about how to process payments safely and efficiently can look no further than Commonwealth Consulting Group. Headquartered in Worcester, MA, Commonwealth prides itself on being “your partner in the payment industry.”
“Commonwealth Consulting Group was founded in 2010 with a single mission,” said Ilene Holman, account manager, “to ensure every client is processing all forms of electronic payments with the most cost-effective and efficient solutions.”
“For too long, the payment processing industry has benefited from customer confusion,” Ms. Holman explained. “We believe in educating our clients, and we always offer interchange pricing. Our statements are transparent and easy to understand; you’ll always know what your costs are and why.”
Most importantly, Ms. Holman said Commonwealth considers itself a partner in the successful operation and growth of its clients’ business. “We offer free AR cost savings analysis, account reconciliation, online reporting and analysis, virtual terminal gateways, development software, and Level II and Level III pricing options,” she said.
“Unlike some merchant service companies, we’re just getting started after the relationship is established – we’re in it for the long haul. All of this, backed by superior customer service from qualified local representatives is what separates Commonwealth from its competitors.”
Ms. Holman added that she loves doing business in North Central Massachusetts. “This region is a close-knit, diverse and well-connected business community comprised of many small and medium-sized businesses that rely on the merchant services that we provide,” she said. “This part of the state is also rich in tradition, tourist attractions, and entrepreneurial activity.”
Commonwealth is very involved in giving back to the community that has contributed to its success. “We support a number of youth sports organizations,” Holman noted, “we sponsor several community events throughout the year, and our employees serve on the boards of a number of local organizations.”
As businesses recover from the challenges of the COVID Pandemic, Ms. Holman shared some optimism about the future. “The last two plus years have been challenging for the business community,” she added, “but during the pandemic, we found that many of our relationships were made stronger because we responded to our clients’ need for remote and contactless payments, cash discounting options, and ATMs, all things that made it possible for our clients to adapt to the changed environment.”
“Going forward, those strengthened relationships are generating referrals and continued growth for our company,” she said.
Ms. Holman notes that her team of eight employees “have to be good listeners in order to provide solutions for our customers’ business needs.” She added the staff is “customer-focused, self-motivated, and detail-driven.” All this is done in a workplace culture which she best describes as “relaxed.”
Commonwealth’s website clearly defines the depths of its services and solutions:
Credit card and debit processing
B2B solutions
PCI compliant software solutions
Buy Now, Pay Later options
eCommerce
Point of service (POS) systems
Mobile payments
ATMs & ATM vaulting services
ACH, EFT, and eChecks
Terminals, products, and supplies
In addition to its website, Ms. Holman explained that Commonwealth promotes itself through all of the usual channels, including social media, event sponsorships, digital ads on our ATMs, monthly newsletters, and networking opportunities. “But,” she said, “our best leads come from word of mouth and referrals from satisfied customers.”
In describing Commonwealth’s strongest influences, Ms. Holman said “we’ve always worked to be more customer-focused than our competitors. So I guess you could say that we have learned what not to do by paying attention to the reasons our customers share for switching to Commonwealth from a competitor.”
Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Business Growth | Business Development | Business Technical Assistance | Business Resources | Massachusetts Business Environment | Member Spotlight | Commonwealth Consulting Group
When Al Rose speaks about Red Apple Farm it is easy to see his passion for his business, his family, his apples, his home and his life. Rose’s enthusiasm is infectious and is easily translated to all aspects of Red Apple Farm’s operation.
Founded in 1912, Rose has carried on the multi-generational farm and converted it into one of North Central Massachusett’s best-known businesses and tourism attractions. With more than 100 full and part-time employees, Red Apple has expanded from its family farm and farm store in Phillipston to Wachusett Mountain – where it operates the unique Bullock Lodge Cider House and The Core in the Main Base Lodge. If that wasn’t enough, Rose has taken Red Apple Farm to Boston – where is operates the largest storefront in the popular Boston Public Market.
Rose’s business philosophy is simple. “We provide an authentic, New England, family farm experience year-round,” he said when asked what separates Red Apple Farm from its competition. It’s that authentic New England experience that Rose feels is most special about doing business in North Central Massachusetts.
“It reflects who and what we are and closely aligned to our mission,” he said. “North Central Massachusetts is New England at its core, from the people who live and work here, to the communities and natural and historical landscapes.”
Rose has also perfected the art of collaboration, teaming with businesses like the Gardner Ale House and Wachusett Mountain Ski Area to expand his business. With Gardner Ale House, he created his Brew Barn and Cidery at the Farm and started brewing his own hard cider. With Wachusett Mountain, he helped reopen the historical Bullock Lodge where he serves fresh cider donuts and hot cider to hundreds of skiers and snowboarders each winter.
It’s that local collaboration which Rose credits in helping his business and others work through the COVID pandemic the past couple years.
“Intrinsically people value local and keeping it local,” he said. “We are fortunate to be in area that is considered by many folks, whether they live in Central Mass or in Boston, to be there backyard! Those are connections that seemed to strengthen during the pandemic and moments of economic uncertainty.”
Rose says his customers’ “ever-changing needs and wants” are Red Apple Farm’s strongest influence. He has learned how to adapt along the way, noting that “particularly the intangible needs (like safety and being grounded during Covid)” were so important.
Rose looks at his employees as part of his family. In describing Red Apple’s workplace culture, he said “we call our employees ‘farm-ily!” He looks for qualities in his employees that share his same business values.
“We look for employees who focus on adding value, cultivate authenticity, and celebrate community,” he said. Rose added that Red Apple Farm is “100% in” on supporting the community. “It’s who we are,” he proudly noted.
One look at Red Apple Farm’s website clearly shows the farm’s great heritage, history and authenticity:
“Red Apple Farm is a fourth-generation family farm,” the website proudly claims. “Red Apple Farm is truly a place to connect the past and today! Our farmhouse and barn were built in the mid-1700’s. The encompassing stonewalls and stately maple trees represent the icons of days gone by and a labor of love that is still found today in the farm’s breath-taking atmosphere and true sense-of-place.”
“Situated right off scenic Route 2 in the heart of North Central Massachusetts, the orchard boasts views of Wachusett Mountain and sprawling fields outlined by untouched forests. Every year our fruit is grown using Integrated Pest Management with conscious thought to people and the environment. Visit the farm, pick your own fruit, stop in to the Country Store for locally produced specialty foods, and don’t leave without trying our famous cider donuts and homemade fudge.”
Rose combines several factors to successfully promote Red Apple Farm.
“Employee training, making decisions that build and enhance our brand, customary loyalty program and communication, and paid advertisement (i.e. social media, newspaper, radio, etc),” he said. With all that, Rose notes “word of mouth by a raving customer!” is by far the most successful method of promotion.
Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | Chamber Member Spotlight | Red Apple Farm
Fresh food, cold beer, a friendly staff and a great location are the main ingredients in the success of the Gardner Ale House, according to owner Rick Walton.
When asked what separates the Gardner Ale House from the competition, he noted “Our food is prepared fresh, not frozen or processed and we make our own beer. Our staff is super friendly and our location in downtown Gardner feels like the center of action – a Main St. kind of feel.”
Founded in 2006, Walton’s popular establishment at 74 Parker St. in Gardner now employs 85 people and is a thriving part of downtown Gardner. He feels one of the most special aspects of doing business in North Central Massachusetts is that customers don’t have to deal with large crowds or noises of the city.
“Our modest size city is just right for our restaurant and the people in the area; some coming from a bit far away,” he said. “North Central MA is just more laid back. COVID didn’t hit us as hard as it hit the cities because of our lower population density and more spread out living situations.”
Walton noted the Ale House is very involved in many community activities.
“We pretty much involve ourselves in anything going on in the city (Gardner IS a city, by the way.),” he said. “And the city and it’s organizations come to us for beer, food, donations of gift cards, senior center activities. We pretty much do it all. And we put on the biggest party for the city called Oktoberfest & the Chair Luge. So much fun! The list goes on…”
While COVID may not have hit the Ale House as hard as other establishments, Walton still said it forced them to change how they operate the business.
“Customers are harder to come by so we have to become even more attractive than we already are,” he said. “That means more consistency with food and service. It means tightening our belts, reducing waste even more – getting the most out of every dollar. It means making it easier to get food for takeout. We need to be like the chains with takeout!”
Walton added they are improving lighting, music, furniture. “The whole vibe is nicer,” he said. “We were forced to take our already excellent restaurant and brewery and make it even better! And it is working, but it is a slow climb. The future looks bright because we are so much better than ever before.”
He also noted the Ale House’s staff is a very important part of why they are even better. “Everybody in the company is important and listened to. Condescending to another employee just doesn’t happen and is not allowed. We aren’t too serious: The culture is to respect each other, work hard and enjoy your job. We can’t be 100% in this, but we try. It might sound dreamy, but we believe you shouldn’t be in a job you don’t like. So, our culture puts employees first. In that way, customers get the best possible service and experience.”
When he is hiring staff, Walton looks for “honesty, a good work ethic and a willingness to learn.” “If you can be like that, he said, “we’ll teach you the rest!”
Word of mouth is a critical way for The Ale House” to promote itself.
“We promote ourselves through our community involvement, through Word of Mouth, heavy use of social media and through collaborations like the Brew Barn and Cidery at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston,” Walton added. “I think Word of Mouth builds our customer base reliably, but social media gets the word out to that base and that is critical. We also have a rewards program and a newsletter in which I am allowed to be a bit silly.”
Walton said he listens to everyone for ideas. “We casually take in the competition to see how they do things,” he noted. “We aren’t too proud to borrow! A very big influence is each other. So many people in this company have left their mark on us with ideas, methods and best practices.”
He concluded the biggest influence of The Ale House is the guests’ input. “Guest feedback is largely positive,” Walton noted, “which gives us the impetus to continue along our way and negative feedback is critical to improving our way forward.”
For over 175 years, Berkshire Bank has supported its customers and communities during both good and difficult times. Today, this community bank has over 14 financial centers in Central Massachusetts with additional locations throughout Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, Connecticut and Rhode Island. The bank combines extraordinary personal service with convenient, user-friendly technology and outstanding performance on environmental, social and governance matters.
Helping communities and supporting small businesses are important to Berkshire Bank, giving back to the local community in many ways. This year it enhanced its commitment and impact through its BEST Community Comeback program – a multi-year $5 billion commitment is focused on strengthening communities by fueling small businesses, community financing and philanthropy, financial access and empowerment, and environmental sustainability.
“Building stronger communities requires a better approach to banking. The people that work here are all local,” said Paul Kelly, Regional President of Berkshire Bank. “We’re very involved in the community and care about it, especially during the pandemic, working with the North Central Chamber and assisting other small businesses with their investments. People really needed our help, money, products, and good service, and they needed it fast. We were able to do that for our customers.”
Berkshire Bank provides business and consumer banking, mortgage, wealth management and investment services with a dedicated team of local professionals helping make 2022 a growing year for the bank. They provide products you would see at a large bank, but with the heart and attention of a community bank.
“Berkshire Bank is a leading socially responsible community bank,” said Alicia Jacobs, AVP Public Relations Officer. “Our employees volunteer throughout the year. Annually, we hold Xtraordinary Day, where the bank closes for the afternoon to assist with nonprofit projects throughout all our regions.” The bank also supports many nonprofit organizations with philanthropy to sustain vital community services. Since January 2022, the Berkshire Bank Foundation has provided nearly $2 million to support the needs of the community.
In addition, Berkshire Bank also launched the Center for Women, Wellness, and Wealth (CWWW) to offer client-focused events on wellness and financial planning, and partnerships with community organizations, specialized experts and thought leaders. Collectively, the Center inspires action to build greater financial stability, alignment and opportunity for women and Berkshire’s broader communities. Initiatives include development support, wellness programs, and complimentary portfolio reviews offered by Berkshire Bank Wealth Management.
“We want to be action-based,” said Kelly. “Our employees really love the fact that they can go out and do something for the community. Our local team members sit on boards and committees in the Central MA market and are able to support our community not just through donation, but through advice, loans, financial management and more. That’s important to us. I see us as a bank that tries to be a change agent and wants to make a positive impact. I believe that is what makes you a great community bank.”
As a community bank, being a part of the Chamber is also important. Berkshire Bank appreciates the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s impact on lives, businesses, and their employees.
“The North Central Chamber just really cares,” stated Kelly. “They’re about bringing people together, learning and communicating better and how to improve, and teaching people how to look through a different lens.” Kelly also stated the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce has built a very special team.
Individuals and businesses can learn more about Berkshire Bank and can find the nearest bank location by visiting www.berkshirebank.com or by calling 800-773-5601.
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