Started in the mid 1940’s by an enterprising young Philadelphian named Martin Dabrow, and originally called Penn Foods, the company was America’s very first importer and distributor of high quality foods, selling directly to small delis and gourmet stores in Philadelphia.
During the 1950’s, Martin shifted his focus to the growing large supermarkets that were starting to dot the landscape outside the big cities. Realizing he could produce higher quality products for less using local manufacturers, he also began making his own dressings and sauces, always keeping a watchful eye on their kitchens.
By 1965, Martin had concluded that manufacturing his own products was the way to go, so he used his life savings to purchase a food plant in Philadelphia, naming it Chelten House in honor of a handsome home in his childhood neighborhood he had always admired. His son Alan was also taking a leadership role in the company, and although their core business was still distribution, their reputation for quality spread quickly, and before long hundreds of supermarkets and restaurants were carrying the Chelten House brand.
Make informed business decisions with financial insights on produce companies.
Try our Snapshots to get more details about this company.
*All information is self-reported by the company
.jpg)
