News Summary
Stewart’s Shops has been awarded the title of ‘Best Workplace’ by Albany Times Union for the eighth consecutive year. This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to a supportive work environment, employee ownership model, and dedication to community service. With over 5,000 employees and more than 400 locations, Stewart’s continues to excel in employee satisfaction, quality products, and extensive community engagement, including a new shop opening and significant local donations.
Albany, NY
Stewart’s Shops has been named the ‘Best Workplace’ by Albany Times Union for the eighth consecutive time, a recognition announced in April 2025. This accolade underscores the company’s commitment to creating a supportive and engaging work environment, which has gained significance as workplace culture continues to be a driving factor for employee satisfaction across industries.
With over 5,000 employees and more than 400 locations across New York, New Hampshire, and Vermont, Stewart’s Shops has built a strong reputation as an employer of choice. The company operates under a unique structure where employees, referred to as partners, own 40% of the business through its Employee Stock Ownership Program. This ownership model not only fosters a sense of belonging among staff but also incentives for employees to strive towards the company’s success.
Stewart’s Shops stands out for maintaining a healthy work environment where employees feel valued and well-compensated. The company is known for its friendly staff, whose positive attitudes are frequently noted by customers and contribute significantly to the overall atmosphere of the stores.
Industry Recognition and Community Engagement
In addition to being honored as a top workplace, Stewart’s Shops has made an indelible mark in the food industry, particularly with its ice cream products. Their Philly Vanilla flavor has been voted the best in New York State, showcasing the quality and popularity of their offerings. Furthermore, Stewart’s has achieved accolades for its dairy products, including being awarded “Best Milk in New York State” at the New York State Fair for three straight years.
Stewart’s Shops is dedicated to community service, with an annual giving goal of $9 million. This initiative partially comes to life through the Holiday Match program, which invites customers to contribute alongside the company to support local causes.
Growth and Expansion Initiatives
Stewart’s Shops is in the midst of a significant expansion plan, having recently inaugurated a new shop in Highland, NY, as part of a $50 million capital investment initiative for 2024. This new location represents a $3 million investment and aims to enhance the company’s presence in Ulster County. The opening event included a $1,000 donation to the Highland Babe Ruth League, underlining the company’s commitment to supporting local organizations and events.
As part of their business operations, Stewart’s Shops maintains a vertically integrated model which allows the company to produce 75% of its products in-house. This includes a wide selection of items from dairy and ice cream to grab-and-go foods, ensuring quality control and freshness for consumers.
In response to their growth and continued success, Stewart’s Shops is actively hiring Part-Time Retail Sales Associates across multiple locations, including cities like Hudson, Albany, Red Hook, and New Paltz. This hiring initiative highlights the company’s effort to maintain its service standards and meet customer demand in their expanding market.
Historical Context
Founded in 1945 by brothers Charles V. and Percy Dake in Ballston Spa, NY, Stewart’s Shops has built a legacy of quality and community engagement. Over the decades, the company has evolved from a local dairy store to a significant retail chains known for exceptional customer service and product quality, while retaining its commitment to employee ownership and community support.
As Stewart’s Shops continues to set the bar in both employee satisfaction and product excellence, it reaffirms its position as a beloved employer and retailer in the communities it serves.
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Additional Resources
- Albany Times Union: Best Workplace Award
- Wikipedia: Workplace Culture
- Hudson Valley Magazine: Stewart’s Shops
- Google Search: Stewart’s Shops
- Hudson Valley Post: Changes at Stewart’s Shops
