Daviess County CEO Students Learn from Zax Creamery Owner Zach Graber
On March 19th, the Daviess County CEO class enjoyed an inspiring visit to Zax Creamery, where they had the privilege of speaking with owner Zach Graber. During their time together, Zach shared his entrepreneurial journey, offering valuable insights, personal stories, and real-world lessons that left a lasting impression on the students.
With locations in Montgomery and Jasper, Zax Creamery has grown significantly since its inception. Zach highlighted several key principles for entrepreneurial success:
1. Strong work ethic
2. Great customer service
3. High-quality products
4. Operational efficiency
5. An opportunistic mindset
6. Letting go of grudges
7. Investing in your business
8. Building strong relationships
9. Staying passionate about your brand
Zach emphasized the importance of connection—getting in front of people, being consistent, and staying faithful in your mission.
The session also explored the evolution of Zax Creamery, which began in September 2018 from a modest trailer setup. Through perseverance and vision, the business expanded, eventually opening a second location in Jasper. A pivotal moment came during the 2020–2021 rebranding from “Big Olaf” to “Zax’s,” a time marked by a shift to crafting homemade ice cream and a growing emphasis on quality and branding.
Zach shared how the Jasper location competed with just three local shops and now nine, so they have enhanced signage and brand recognition. In Montgomery, the rebrand also sparked a boom in coffee sales, showcasing the power of listening to customer needs and adapting accordingly.
Thank you, Zach, for your time, transparency, and encouragement to our future entrepreneurs!