Celebration of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
2025 Regional Business of the Year– Sarris Candies
Sarris Candies, a name synonymous with delightful, hand-crafted confections, has been honored as the Business of the Year for the Celebration of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. This accolade recognizes the company’s remarkable journey, forward-thinking strategies, and community-centric values.
A Rich History of Flavor and Tradition
Sarris Candies was founded in 1960 by Frank Sarris, who started making chocolates in his basement in Canonsburg. With a dream and a recipe passed down from his mother, Frank embarked on a journey that would eventually turn his small venture into a beloved brand. Over the decades, Sarris Candies has grown from its humble beginnings into a household name, now run by Frank’s son, Bill Sarris, still rooted in Canonsburg and known for its quality chocolates and treats.
Bob Stein, left, Executive Director, Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence, presents the 2025 Regional Business of the Year Award to Bill Sarris, right, of Sarris Candies.
Old Fashioned Production meets Innovative Practices
One of the hallmarks of Sarris Candies’ success is its innovative approach to business, particularly in fundraising. Through the various fundraising programs that allow schools, sports teams, and community organizations to raise money through the sale of their chocolates, Sarris not only has established its reach, but also strengthened its brand as a partner in community development.
From the start, quality has been the focus of Sarris Candies. But a close second has been how they’ve displayed their products. In addition to the new production and warehouse space, a two-floor factory store is under construction in the facility that will allow customers see how their treats are made, in real-time, for the full Sarris experience.
A Modern Touch with a New Factory
In its commitment to growth and modernization, Sarris Candies recently unveiled a state-of-the-art factory designed to meet increasing demand and give the business the ability to produce new types of products. This expansion, with new equipment, reflects their dedication to maintaining high-quality standards while ensuring their employees can continue their high level of craftsmanship. “We still do things the old-fashioned way, one batch at a time, we haven’t changed anything. So the equipment helps our employees work; it doesn’t eliminate employees,” said Bill Sarris, CEO & President of Sarris Candies. Tino Rionda, Director of Operations with Sarris Candies, said the new space has increased production efficiency by 20%.
A Strong Relationship with Pitt
Sarris Candies has cultivated a strong relationship with the University of Pittsburgh, fostering collaboration that enriches the academic, research, and business communities. One such connection is the Frank & Athena Sarris Chair in Transplantation Biology in the Department of Medicine, serving an important need to advance the science behind lifesaving procedures. They have also supported educational programs, contributed to entrepreneurial efforts, and provided real-world business insights to students, showcasing a commitment to nurturing future leaders.
“We’ve always had a relationship with Pitt — buying chocolates, them gifting chocolates, us supporting the teams,” said Sarris. “And we just opened a store on Pitt campus. It’s a great relationship, the chancellor’s been wonderful. And remember something: Pitt wins, more Panther Paws get out there!”
Celebrating Success
The recognition as Business of the Year for the OIE’s Celebration of Innovation and Entrepreneurship brings into account not only Sarris Candies’ enduring family business legacy and innovative foundations, but also its unwavering commitment to community engagement. As they continue to expand and innovate, Sarris Candies remains a shining example of how businesses can find—and build—entrepreneurial success right here in our area. Bill Sarris reaffirmed that commitment: “We’re Canonsburg, we’re Pittsburgh, so we’re never going to go stray away.”