For some there comes a time to follow your dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Craig Rome, a Kings Park resident and successful marketing executive, recently acquired the well-known Philly Pretzel Factory in Smithtown with his wife Christine and daughter Emma. After working in corporate marketing for 25 years Craig wanted to put his skills into practice for himself and work in the surrounding community he fell in love with when he moved to Kings Park over 20 years ago. He searched for an organization with a proven formula for success.
With a 25-year history and over 160 franchise locations offering authentic Philadelphia style pretzels, it looked like the right opportunity. On January 2nd of this year the Rome family took over the Philly Pretzel Factory of Smithtown. “What attracted us most was not just their amazing product Philly Pretzel factory puts out, but the hands-on entrepreneurial spirit of the founders that are still involved. Combined with the support of the previous owners and our employees that stayed on, it made for a smooth transition,” says Mr. Rome. “I was in full support of what Craig wanted to do,” says Christine. So much so, that she gave up her career as a pre-school teacher to work alongside Craig. Daughter Emma, who is graduating from Suffolk in May, has been running their social media effort.
I’ve worked with thousands of small businesses over my years, but what I love most about these guys is the passion driven by an entire family. Having a party? What a great way to celebrate any occasion by starting off with one of their Party platters of rivets (pretzel bites) or famous mini hot dogs, lovingly wrapped in their irresistible pretzel dough. Try their amazing Philly cheesesteaks, pepperoni rolls, and cheeseburgers wrapped in fresh-baked pretzel. The real tug is in their matching dipping sauces (14 in all). Try the popular cinnamon, cheddar, and honey mustard. Bet you can’t dip just one!!
From their unique shape and incredible soft Pretzel recipe, the taste and texture is simply irresistible. As they say at Philly Pretzel Factory, “It’s not just about what goes into our pretzels It’s about how you feel when you eat one…or four!” I can tell you straight away, as soon as you walk in their store, the aroma of fresh bake pretzels will slay you into having one right on the spot. No doubt you’ll leave with a bag of four or more. They are that good!
What I genuinely appreciate is how community driven the Rome family is. Despite their busy schedule, Craig and Christine manage to take the time and volunteer with the local organizations.. Craig spends his time as the Committee Chair of Troop 539 Girl (an all-female BSA Troop) in Kings Park which he helped found, and Christine with youth at Island Christian Church in Northport. Join me in congratulating the Rome family and their Philly Pretzel Factory that is eager to deliver their passion in crafting irresistible creations that will no doubt exceed your expectations
Featured photo: Craig Rome flanked by wife Christine and daughter Emma
Philly Pretzel Factory is located at 314 Maple Avenue, Smithtown.
631.800.8200
20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 