Westerville store to open in fall of 2015;
Maumee location transferred to local couple

Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn Company is expanding to the Columbus area this fall, and is adding two area couples as its first franchisees.

Anna Mae and John Blankemeyer, of Ottawa, will open Shirley’s first official franchise location in uptown Westerville this September. The vibrant neighborhood, historic location, and Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn brand proved an ideal match for the Blankemeyers, who say they look forward to launching their new business.

“Shirley’s was a strong fit for us, and we decided it was very important that we joined as the first franchisees,” said Anna Mae. “Now as we begin to hire our management and staff, it’s exciting to see our vision become a reality.”

In addition, the company’s location at The Shops at Fallen Timbers in Maumee has been awarded as the second franchise to Vance and Crista Nofziger of Pandora, who have since taken over operations at the store. News of both couples joining the Shirley’s family is momentous in the development of the emerging franchise, but co-­‐founder and CEO Pete Suter says it is vital that the company stay true to its small-­‐town roots.

“When we launched our franchising program, we committed to doing so the same way that we create our popcorn,” said Suter. “It was essential that we move carefully, in small batches, with the finest ingredients available. Frankly, we’re thrilled with the results.”

With three stores scheduled or already open in Ohio this year, Suter says further expansion is on the horizon.

“Right now we’re seeking additional owner-­operators in the Great Lakes region who want to make a positive impact in their life and their community,” Suter said. “Our motto as a business comes straight from our customers: ‘It’s more than just popcorn, it’s pure happiness.’”