Letter from the publisher
VermontBiz is happy to present the 2025 winners of the annual Best of Business Awards. The BOB Awards provides an opportunity to tell us, other readers and the rest of the state which companies in Vermont have the best products and services for businesses. This is the ninth year that VermontBiz has surveyed its readers to find the Best of the Best companies in Vermont.
With over 53 years of forging strong relationships with Vermont’s business community, we know the great companies we have in Vermont; we have highlighted them in our magazine, website and e-communications month after month.
As always, VermontBiz readers chose the winners! Between Jan. 1 and March 1, VermontBiz surveyed its print and digital subscribers. We asked readers — the business leaders of Vermont – whom they trust to provide their services in 120 different categories. After more than 66,000 votes, we compiled the go-to list in categories ranging from Best Landscaping Company and Best Digital Media Agency. Some of the questions and answers were based on a regional perspective, while most of the categories were looking for statewide winners.
For the first time in nine years, there was a tie in one category, with DEW Construction and ReArch Construction Co. sharing the title of Favorite General Contractor. Additionally, Open Approach became the first write-in winner since the inaugural year of voting, securing the award for Best IT Service Company.
The BOB Awards results highlight the exceptional businesses in Vermont — those that provide outstanding customer service, consistently exceed expectations and demonstrate meticulous attention to detail. This program celebrates the best Vermont companies in more than 120 business-to-business categories. We urge you, our readers, to check out these businesses and all those businesses who received votes in this annual survey.
Thank you!
John Boutin, Publisher
VermontBiz
Best Restaurant for Business Lunch and Diner (Chittenden County):
Windjammer Restaurant
1076 Williston Road
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 862-6585
windjammerrestaurant.com
Locally owned since 1977, the Windjammer is Burlington’s original steak-and-seafood restaurant. We offer classic American fare, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, craft cocktails, local beers and a Wine Spectator wine list. Proudly supporting Vermont farms, producers and businesses for more than four decades.
Best Restaurant for Business Lunch (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
Jeff’s Maine Seafood
65 N. Main St.
St. Albans, VT 05478
(802) 524-6135
www.jeffsmaineseafood.com
Jeff’s Maine Seafood is a fine-dining restaurant on the green in historic downtown Saint Albans, next to Taylor Park. We offer a wide variety of dishes to satisfy every palate.
Best Restaurant for Business Lunch (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
Sarducci’s Restaurant & Bar
Best Restaurant for Business Lunch (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
Café Provence
Best Restaurant for Business Lunch (Windham/Windsor Counties):
The Grafton Inn
Best Restaurant for Business Dinner (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
Fire & Ice
Best Restaurant for Business Dinner (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
Blackback Pub
3 Railroad St.
Waterbury, VT 05676
(802) 244-0123
www.theblackbackpub.com
Blackback Pub is where Vermont’s craft beer culture meets inventive, globally inspired pub fare in the heart of Waterbury. With 32 rotating taps and a menu that blends local ingredients with global influences and vegan-friendly options, we offer a fresh take on the classic pub experience. Our cozy, rustic space invites connection, celebration and community — making every visit memorable.
Best Restaurant for Business Dinner (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
Ye Olde Tavern
Best Restaurant for Business Dinner (Windham/Windsor Counties):
Black Rock Steakhouse
Best After-Work Bar Chittenden County:
Waterworks Food + Drink
Best After-Work Bar (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
14th Star Brewing Co.
133 N. Main St.
Suite 7
St. Albans, VT 05478
(802) 528-5988
www.14thstarbrewing.com
14th Star is an award-winning craft brewery known for producing a wide variety of world-class brews with a mission to give back to local organizations and various charities.
Best After-Work Bar (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
Three Penny Taproom
Best After-Work Bar (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
Union Underground
Best After-Work Bar (Windham/Windsor Counties):
Trail Break
5945 Woodstock Road
Quechee, VT 05001
(802) 281-3208
trailbreakvt.com
We are a restaurant, bar, taco truck and catering company in our eighth year of operation (second year in our new home in Quechee). We offer catering services statewide for parties of 20 to 500-plus! Our restaurant is open mid-May through mid-October, serving up tacos, burritos, margaritas and more!
Best Bank (Statewide):
Northfield Savings Bank
1021 Paine Turnpike North
Berlin, VT 05602
(800) 672-2274
nsbvt.com
NSB is the largest bank headquartered in Vermont, with 14 offices serving central Vermont and Chittenden County. NSB has remained a mutual institution throughout its history, with a strong focus on community impact. We offer a full range of products and services for commercial, government, mortgage, and personal banking customers.
Best Bank (Chittenden County):
Community Bank
28 Cottonwood Drive
Williston, VT 05495
(802) 865-1900
cbna.com
We’re a full-service financial institution, offering all the things much bigger banks offer. But we also have the one thing they don’t: a passion for providing the highest level of customer service in whatever we do. We contribute to the prosperity of our community, including our clients, colleagues and shareholders.
Best Bank (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
Peoples Trust Co.
25 Kingman St.
St Albans, VT 05478
(802) 524-2196
ptcvt.com
Peoples Trust Co. is a locally owned Vermont bank offering personal and business banking, loans and online services. PTC provides trusted, personalized financial solutions with heartfelt service, strengthening our communities and building lasting relationships since 1886.
Best Bank (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
Community National Bank
Best Bank (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
The Bank of Bennington
155 North Street
Bennington, VT 05201
(802) 442-1640
thebankofbennington.com
The Bank of Bennington is a full-service mutual community bank headquartered in Bennington with branches in Manchester, Bennington, Arlington and Rutland. We are known for our customer service, financial strength and community involvement. We are proud to have received a 5-star rating from Bauer Financial for over 30 years.
Best Bank (Windham/Windsor Counties):
Mascoma Bank
67 N. Park St.
Lebanon, NH 03766
(888) 627-2662
www.mascomabank.com
Mascoma Bank is a $2.9 billion mutual community bank and Certified B Corporation with 28 branches and two loan production offices located throughout northern New England. The bank has a 126-year history of serving communities and businesses primarily in rural and minor-urban areas. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.
Best Credit Union (Chittenden County):
Vermont Federal Credit Union
275 Kennedy Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 658-0225
www.vermontfederal.org
We offer a better way of banking with a credit union that is immersed in the community, featuring the latest in technology, innovative products and services, and easy access to all of your accounts.
Best Credit Union (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
EastRise Credit Union
141 Harvest Lane
Williston, VT 05495
(800) 400-8790
www.eastrise.com
With Vermont roots going back over 75 years, EastRise Credit Union goes above and beyond to provide financial products and services that help our 170,000 members and our local communities build stronger and more sustainable financial futures.
Best Credit Union (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
EastRise Credit Union
141 Harvest Lane
Williston, VT 05495
(800) 400-8790
www.eastrise.com
With Vermont roots going back over 75 years, EastRise Credit Union goes above and beyond to provide financial products and services that help our 170,000 members and our local communities build stronger and more sustainable financial futures.
Best Credit Union (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
Heritage Family Credit Union
30 Allen St.
Rutland, VT 05701
(888) 252-8932
www.hfcuvt.com
Heritage Family Credit Union is a member-owned, member-first, not-for-profit cooperative offering a full-range of financial services with locations serving Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, and Massachusetts. HFCU financially empowers individuals and businesses by providing exceptional member experiences, innovative technology, and tailored solutions while supporting local communities through philanthropic activities.
Best Credit Union (Windham/Windsor Counties):
Vermont Federal Credit Union
275 Kennedy Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 658-0225
www.vermontfederal.org
We offer a better way of banking with a credit union that is immersed in the community, featuring the latest in technology, innovative products and services, and easy access to all of your accounts. Our purpose is to help Vermonters prosper, no matter where they may be on life’s journey.
Our credit union is about people helping people.
Best Credit Union (Statewide):
Vermont Federal Credit Union
275 Kennedy Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 658-0225
www.vermontfederal.org
We offer a better way of banking with a credit union that is immersed in the community, featuring the latest in technology, innovative products and services, and easy access to all of your accounts.
Best Accounting Firm:
Gallagher Flynn & Co.
Best Payroll Service Provider:
ADP
Best Financial Planning/Investment Firm:
Trust Company of Vermont
463 Mountain View Drive, Suite 405
Colchester, VT 05446
(866) 616-0070
www.tcvermont.com
Trust Company of Vermont is an employee-owned, locally controlled, firm specializing in financial and estate planning, trust administration and investment management. Founded in 1999 as the state’s first independent trust company, we serve individuals, families and institutions from our Brattleboro headquarters and offices in Burlington, Rutland and Manchester, Vermont, and Keene, New Hampshire.
Best Downhill Ski Area:
Smugglers’ Notch Resort
4323 Route 108 South
Jeffersonville, VT 05464
(802) 644-1119
www.smuggs.com
America’s Family Resort provides the best family vacation for your time and money. We offer a mountainside resort community of homes ranging from studio to five bedrooms. Our Village has everything you need for family fun and adventure, with four seasons to choose from.
Best Cross-Country Ski Area:
Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort
Best Golf Course (Chittenden County):
Burlington Country Club
Best Golf Course (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
The Golf Club at Basin Harbor
Best Golf Course (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
Stowe Country Club
Best Golf Course (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
Green Mountain National Golf Club
Best Golf Course (Windham/Windsor Counties):
Lake Morey Resort
Best Health Club (Chittenden County):
The EDGE
142 W. Twin Oaks Terrace
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 860-3343
www.edgevt.com
The EDGE is a wellness-based business with for main components: sports and fitness; kids and fitness; physical therapy; and preventative care.
Best Health Club (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
Planet Fitness
Best Health Club (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
Green Mountain Community Fitness
Best Health Club (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
Vermont Sport & Fitness Club
Best Health Club (Windham/Windsor Counties):
Upper Valley Aquatic Center
Best Sporting Event to Take Clients To:
Vermont Lake Monsters
1 King St.
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 655-4200
www.vermontlakemonsters.com
The Vermont Lake Monsters have been providing family entertainment since 1994, drawing close to 3 million fans. Join us at Centennial Field all summer long. More than a baseball team, we are a community partner, woven into the fabric of Vermont.
Best Advertising Agency:
Place Creative Co.
Best Commercial Photographer:
Andrew Cate Photography
113 Church St.
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 551-2283
www.andrewcate.com
Andrew Cate Photography creates images for local and national businesses, highlighting their employees, products and what makes them stand out from the crowd. From website imagery to events, we always capture the best of your business and your team. Now proudly hosting individuals and groups at our Church Street studio.
Best Public Relations Agency:
Fuse
Best Digital Media Agency:
Mt. Mansfield Media
Best Website Developer:
Eternity
182 Main St., Studio 3
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 865-2000
eternitymarketing.com
Eternity is a Burlington-based web design and digital marketing agency that helps organizations grow online. We craft beautiful websites, drive traffic with SEO and paid ads, and empower clients with AI solutions. Our team blends creativity, strategy and technology to deliver results that build lasting relationships and community impact.
Best IT Service:
Open Approach
1 Mill St.
Suite 365
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 242-2050
openapproach.com
We keep information technology as sharp and reliable as a block of Cabot cheddar. And just like syrup season, we’re always ready before things start to boil over. Nothing artificial — just dependable, Vermont-grade IT.
Best Cell Phone Provider:
Verizon
Best Telephone Service:
Burlington Telecom
200 Church St.
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 540-0007
www.burlingtontelecom.com
Burlington Telecom is a locally operated telecommunications company that offers residential and commercial fiber internet and phone services in areas of Burlington, Winooski, South Burlington, Essex, Essex Junction, Shelburne and Colchester, with more on the horizon.
Best Internet Provider:
Comcast
Best Computer Equipment Provider:
Small Dog Electronics
316 Flynn Ave.
Suite A
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 595-2037
smalldog.com
Small Dog Electronics is proud to celebrate our 30th year in business. Over the decades, we have focused exclusively on selling and servicing Apple products. We also extend our services to include business sales and consulting services in addition to our online store.
Best Copier Provider:
SymQuest
Best Office Furniture:
Office Environments
5 Green Tree Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 864-3000
www.oeivt.com
Founded in 1985, Office Environments is a full-service contract furniture dealership offering an extensive array of services, including needs assessment, planning strategies, complete design packages, architectural solutions, project management, and installation services. No project is too large or too small. Ultimately, your success is our success.
Best Corporate Moving Service:
Booska Movers
Best Property Management Company:
Redstone
Best Commercial Real Estate Broker:
V/T Commercial
208 Flynn Ave.
Studio 2i
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 864-2000
www.vtcommercial.com
V/T Commercial comprises of a team of highly successful and productive real estate professionals and advisors. Established in 1986, the firm has enjoyed unprecedented success for almost 40 years by helping grow the commercial real estate industry in all parts of the state. We are not developers or landlords of commercial properties. We are purely brokers who have no conflicts with our clients.
Best Waste Removal Company:
Casella Waste Systems
Best MBA Program:
University of Vermont
Best Online Degree Program:
Champlain College
Best Architectural Firm:
Wiemann Lamphere Architects
38 Eastwood Drive
Suite 301
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 655-5020
www.wiemannlamphere.com
Wiemann Lamphere Architects has been a leader and innovator in the architectural design community since 1971. We provide our clients with high-quality, comprehensive architectural solutions to meet their building needs. We are dedicated to creating strong and enduring client relationships, always taking our client’s philosophy, programmatic requirements, and specific site characteristics into consideration to shape the basis of our designs.
Best Engineering Firm:
Otter Creek Engineering
Best General Contractor:
DEW Construction
Best General Contractor:
ReArch Construction
88 Technology Park Way, Suite 2
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 863-8727
rearchconstruction.com
ReArch Construction is a premier construction management firm serving clients throughout New England. Committed to quality, integrity and innovation, ReArch provides comprehensive services from preconstruction through project completion. Our portfolio includes a diverse range of projects, and the company continues to build lasting relationships with clients, architects and industry partners.
Best Electricity Provider:
Green Mountain Power
Best Renewable Energy Company:
Green Mountain Solar
76 Ethan Allen Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 369-9149
www.greenmtnsolar.com
Green Mountain Solar, founded in 2017, installs solar, batteries and heat pumps throughout the state of Vermont. We give Vermonters all the information they need to decide if solar is the right energy solution for their homes or businesses.
Best Fuel Provider:
Vermont Gas Systems
85 Swift St.
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 863-4511
www.vermontgas.com
VGS provides natural gas, behind-the-meter offerings and service. VGS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Northern New England Energy Corp. NNEEC is owned by parent company Energir in Quebec.
Best Electrical Contractor:
Cummings Electric
80 Ethan Allen Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 658-1292
www.cummingselectric.com
Cummings Electric is a full-service electrical contracting company providing electrical installation, maintenance and repairs for commercial, industrial and residential needs; design/build services; generator installation and service; electric car charging stations; and Haier electric heat pumps.
Best Mechanical & Plumbing Contractor:
New England Air Systems
43 Krupp Drive
Williston, VT 05495
(802) 264-1212
www.neair.com
New England Air Systems is a full-service design-build contractor. We take care of all your building’s mechanical needs, from HVAC and refrigeration to plumbing and piping, with a team of skilled professionals and in-house custom fabrication capabilities. We are there when you need us most, with 24/7 service and fast response times.
Best Concrete Company:
S.D. Ireland Cos.
20 Redimix Drive
Williston, VT 05495
(802) 863-6222
www.sdireland.com
S.D. Ireland is a construction company offering services in excavation, concrete construction, asphalt paving and precast concrete products. Providing comprehensive construction solutions across various sectors in Vermont.
Best Lumber Company:
R.K. Miles
618 Depot St.
Manchester Center, VT 05255
(802) 362-1952
www.rkmiles.com
R.K. Miles is a fourth-generation, family-owned building materials supplier committed to its role as an employer and as a partner in the communities where it does business. Now with nine locations serving Vermont, western Massachusetts and beyond.
Best Landscaping Company:
Landshapes
Best Auto Dealership:
The Automaster
Best Truck Dealership:
Heritage Ford and Toyota
Best Boat Dealer:
Saba Marine
390 Prim Road
Colchester, VT 05446
(802) 863-1148
www.sabamarinevt.com
Saba Marine is celebrating 15 years of being Vermont and Lake Champlain’s premier powerboat dealer. We are proud to carry 12 new boat brands, along with preowned and brokerage boats. We also have top-tier service, parts and boat restoration departments, making us the one-stop shop for everything boating. As a local, family-owned business, we know our reputation is everything. We put our customers and community first to exceed their expectations and build long-lasting relationships.
Best Vermont-Made Product:
Darn Tough Vermont
150 Pilgrim Park Road
Waterbury, VT 05671
(802) 444-1547
www.darntough.com
Darn Tough Vermont is a manufacturer of premium merino wool socks. From hiking to running, skiing to hunting, Darn Tough Vermont has a sock for that. Still made in Vermont and unconditionally guaranteed for life.
Best Vermont-Made Beverage:
Barr Hill by Caledonia Spirits
116 Gin Lane
Montpelier, VT 05602
(802) 472-8000
www.barrhill.com
Founded by a beekeeper, Barr Hill distills award-winning spirits with raw, wildflower honey as the key contributor of botanical depth. Enjoy complimentary tastings, including our recently released Vermont rye whiskey; tours; and a world-class cocktail bar at our state-of-the-art, sustainably powered distillery in Montpelier.
Best Vermont-Made Food Product:
Cabot Creamery Cooperative
193 Home Farm Way
Waitsfield, VT 05673
(1-888) 792-2268
cabotcreamery.com
Cabot Creamery is a farmer-owned cooperative and certified B Corporation that’s been making award-winning dairy products with love, pride and purpose for over a century.
Best Nonprofit Organization:
Vermont Foodbank
33 Parker Road
Barre, VT 05641
(802) 917-4311
www.vtfoodbank.org
Vermont Foodbank is Vermont’s only food bank, partnering to share food and improve food access so that everyone in Vermont has the nourishment they need to thrive.
Best Pet-Friendly Office:
Pet Food Warehouse
Best Commercial Signmaker:
Design Signs
Best Sticker and Label Manufacturer:
Sticky Brand
66 Bowdoin St
Suite 200
South Burlington, VT 05403
(844) 678-4259
www.thestickybrand.com
Sticky Brand is an online custom sticker-printing company focused on premium quality products, fast turnaround and excellent customer service.
Best Commercial Printer:
PawPrint & Mail/Catamount Marketing & Promo
12 Gregory Drive, Suite 8
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 865-2872
paw-prints.com
Serving Greater Burlington and Vermont businesses and organizations since 1990, the PawPrint & mail team has earned the trust and confidence of clients with attentive service that’s prompt, courteous and knowledgeable. For printing, mailing, graphic design, promo and apparel, we make it easy!
Best Awards and Promotional
Products Provider:
Vermont Awards & Engraving
650 Industrial Park Road
St. Albans, Vermont 05478
802-862-3000
www.vermontawards.com
Vermont Awards & Engraving is a creative studio, specializing in engraving physical products with custom designs that speak to who you are and honor the recipient. We engrave metal, wood, glass, stone and more to create stunning awards, gifts and signage. We are an LGBT+, woman- and family-owned small business with decades of experience to consult on your project.
Best Staffing Service Provider:
TLC Nursing
1550 Williston Road
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 735-1123
tlcnursing.com
TLC Nursing aims to set the standard for excellence in health care staffing by consistently delivering the highest quality care. By embracing innovation, fostering continuous growth and upholding our values, we strive to transform the health care industry and positively impact the lives of patients, facilities and the communities we serve.
Best Employee Benefits Firm:
The Richards Group
48 Harris Place
Brattleboro, VT 05302
(800) 222-6016
www.therichardsgrp.com
The Richards Group has provided insurance, employee benefits and retirement plan solutions to clients throughout New Hampshire and Vermont since 1867. The firm has 160 employees, 11 locations and has been recognized for contributions to our local communities and as one of the best places to work in the region. We pride ourselves in our professionalism, experience and providing proactive service to protect all the things you value because we know that it’s not only what you do, but how you do it.
Best Large Health Care Provider (600 or More Employees):
University of Vermont Medical Center
Best Small Health Care Provider (Fewer Than 600 Employees):
Copley Hospital
Best Commercial Property/Casualty Insurance Provider:
Kinney Insurance Agency
114 Upper Welden St
St. Albans, VT 05478
(802) 524-2202
www.kinneyins.com
Kinney Insurance Agency provides tailored commercial insurance solutions to businesses across Vermont. Our expert team helps clients manage risk, protect assets and plan for growth with personalized service and proactive guidance. We’re committed to building strong, lasting partnerships that support local business success.
Best Health Insurance Provider:
Blue Cross of Vermont
445 Industrial Lane
Berlin, VT 05602
(800) 247-2583
www.bcbsvt.com
As Vermont’s only local, nonprofit health plan for more than 40 years, we have a simple mission: make health care work better for all Vermonters. We are dedicated to enhancing our state’s unique way of life. Our passion and purpose are rooted in supporting our community’s well-being with useful tools and resources, wellness programs and services, and local events.
Best Corporate Law Firm:
Gravel & Shea
Best Bankruptcy Law Firm:
Primmer Piper Eggleston & Cramer
30 Main St.
Suite 500
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 864-0880
www.primmer.com
Primmer Piper Eggleston & Cramer is a New England-based law firm focused on meeting the legal needs of businesses, institutions, organizations and individuals throughout the region. The firm offers deep expertise in a wide range of legal services, providing clients with a convenient, single source of legal counsel across disciplines.
Best Employment Law Firm:
Langrock Sperry & Wool
210 College St.
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 864-0217
langrock.com
Langrock Sperry & Wool offers a full range of legal services to business and individual clients throughout Vermont. We are one of the largest law firms in the state, with offices in Burlington and Middlebury. We are also one of the oldest firms, celebrating 65 years of serving Vermonters.
Best Intellectual Property Law Firm:
Downs Rachlin Martin
199 Main St.
Suite 600
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 862-2375
www.drm.com
Downs Rachlin Martin is Vermont’s largest full-service corporate law firm. With more than 55 attorneys, we represent regional, national and international entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, technology and energy businesses, and Fortune 100 companies. Teamwork, both within and across capabilities and offices, is at the heart of DRM’s client service.
Best Real Estate Law Firm:
Peet Law Group
100 Interstate Corporate Center
Suite 101
Williston, VT 05495
(802) 860-4767
www.peetlaw.com
The Peet Law Group assists buyers and sellers of real estate and those refinancing their mortgages throughout the state of Vermont. The firm’s mission is to provide the best professional services and legal advice while moving transactions forward in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Best Tax Law Firm:
Sheehey Furlong & Behm
30 Main St.
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 864-9891
www.sheeheyvt.com
Sheehey provides legal advice, guidance and support that provides clients with timely and cost-effective solutions. With experience in a variety of practice areas, from large transactions to complex litigation; land use planning; estate and tax planning; and regulatory compliance, Sheehey possesses a singular focus on helping you achieve your legal goals.
Best Manufacturer:
Cabot Creamery Cooperative
193 Home Farm Way
Waitsfield, VT 05673
(1-888) 792-2268
cabotcreamery.com
Cabot Creamery is a farmer-owned cooperative and certified B-Corp that’s been making award-winning dairy products with love, pride and purpose for over a century. The high-quality milk produced by the Cabot farm families throughout New England and New York is crafted into products including, “The World’s Best Cheddar.” Cabot Creamery is a farmer-owned cooperative and the first dairy co-op to become a certified B Corporation.
Best Retailer:
Garderner’s Supply Co.
Best Young Professionals Network:
Burlington Young Professionals
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events (Chittenden County):
The Essex Resort & Spa
70 Essex Way
Essex, VT 05452
(802) 787-1100
www.essexresort.com
Vermont’s spot for stays, spa, dining and events.
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
Jeff’s Maine Seafood
65 N. Main St.
St. Albans, VT 05478
(802) 524-6135
www.jeffsmaineseafood.com
Jeff’s Maine Seafood is a fine-dining restaurant on the green in historic downtown Saint Albans, adjacent to Taylor Park. We offer a wide variety of dishes to satisfy every palate.
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
Stoweflake Resort & Conference Center
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
Mountain Top Resort
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events (Windham/Windsor Counties):
Woodstock Inn
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events (Chittenden County):
Champlain Valley Exposition
105 Pearl St.
Essex Junction, VT 05452
(802) 878-5545
www.cvexpo.org
The Champlain Valley Exposition hosts more than 300,000 annual guests to its community events from across all socioeconomic statuses, ages, races, genders, etc. The exposition is a central hub for community events, large and small. The Fairgrounds continues to be instrumental in providing for the Vermont community for over a century.
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
Basin Harbor
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
Stoweflake Resort & Conference Center
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
Killington Grand Resort Hotel
228 E. Mountain Road
Killington, VT 05751
(800) 621-MTNS
www.killington.com/lodging-groups/lodging/killington-grand-resort-hotel
Killington’s only full-service mountainside hotel with a focus on quality, service and guest experience. Providing a one-of-a-kind guest experience at the East Coast’s biggest and best mountain destination.
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events (Windham/Windsor Counties):
Woodstock Inn & Resort
Best Corporate Event Caterer:
Sugarsnap
57 Fayette Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 861-2951
www.thesnapvt.com
Sugarsnap is a farm-to-table catering company offering a wide range of catering services.
Best Security Firm:
Chocolate Thunder Security
1 Mill St.
Suite RLB
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 777-8448
www.chocolatethundersecurity.com
Providing public and private security services to communities and institutions throughout Vermont.
Best Hotel for Business Travel (Chittenden County):
Hotel Vermont
41 Cherry St.
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 651-0080
www.hotelvt.com
Locally owned and operated, what we offer inside our walls is a safe space where all feel comfortable to be their authentic selves. Our guests, community, planet and team are top of mind in our daily routines and in our long-term goals.
Best Hotel for Business Travel (Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties):
Basin Harbor
Best Hotel for Business Travel (Central Vermont/Northeast Region):
Stoweflake Resort & Conference Center
Best Hotel for Business Travel (Rutland/Bennington Counties):
The Vermont Inn
Best Hotel for Business Travel (Windham/Windsor Counties):
Woodstock Inn & Resort
Best Travel Agency for Business Travel:
Milne Travel
325 N. Main St.
Barre, VT 05641
800-786-4563
www.milnetravel.com
Milne Travel offers business and vacation travelers a personal relationship with certified travel advisers, who are accessible by phone, email and in person, at one of our local travel office across Vermont and the northeastern United States.
Best New Business in 2024:
Kerri Surridge Insurance Agency
7 Kiburn St., Suite 303
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 279-7278
kerrisurridge.com
Supporting business owners and their families in finding the right insurance protection at a competitive price. Providing business insurance such as liability, property, workers’ compensation, commercial auto and cyber liability, to name just a few. Along with personal insurance for one’s home, auto, umbrella, flood, recreational vehicles and more!
Congratulations on the 2025 Best of Business Awardees!
Based in New York, Stephen Freeman is a Senior Editor at Trending Insurance News. Previously he has worked for Forbes and The Huffington Post. Steven is a graduate of Risk Management at the University of New York.