Local Business Focus - Freds Coffee and Donuts A Local Gem Serving the Community

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TANNERSVILLE — Since opening its doors on December 28, 2022, Fred's Coffee and Donuts has quickly become a beloved local spot, drawing a steady stream of new and returning customers. The donut shop is the brainchild of serial entrepreneur Ryan Chadwick, whose vision for improving the mountaintop community extends far beyond sweet treats.

Chadwick, who also runs the Tanners Boathouse during the summer months (operating as a barbecue spot this winter), says Fred's holds special meaning for him. "I named the donut shop 'Fred's' after my father and grandfather, whose names were Fred," he explained. As Vice President of the Hunter Chamber of Commerce, Chadwick is no stranger to community-focused initiatives. His trolley system, for example, has helped ease traffic congestion and reduce illegal parking along Route 23A in the Clove. "I've noticed less litter and issues on the mountain road. I think we've made some serious progress in the past two years," he said.

Fred's is managed by 24-year-old Kody Leach, who has been with the business since its inception. Leach, a University of Kentucky graduate with a degree in Business Management, brings youthful energy and sharp business acumen to the team. "We get here at 6 a.m. to start making donuts, and during busier days, even earlier," Leach shared. During the ski season, Fred's sells around 300 donuts before noon and averages 500 daily during the winter season.

Reflecting on the shop's first year, Leach said, "We were lucky to have a great first year. Our business has been doing very well since then." Leach credits much of his growth as a manager to Chadwick's mentorship, noting, "Ryan gives me a lot of room to operate, and we have mutual trust. I've learned my management style and the importance of internal communication."

Fred's commitment to local partnerships is evident in their switch to Latham-based Chris' Coffee. "Their availability, cost, and top-notch service sealed the deal," said Leach. The same dedication to quality applies to their donuts, made using the "Donut Robot Mark II" machine and a recipe adapted from the former Twin Peaks coffee and donut shop in the Village..

Chadwick's passion for revitalizing the area is evident in his efforts to transform underused properties. The site of Fred's, previously home to Pete's Place, was in disrepair when Chadwick purchased it during COVID-19. At one point, the building even had a tree growing through the roof. After extensive renovations, the location now serves as a hub of community activity. Chadwick is also exploring alternative uses for the property's three acres.

Beyond donuts, Chadwick's ventures include Tanners Boathouse, Kaaterskill Trolley Company, several restaurants across the U.S., real estate developments, and even a conch restoration project in the Bahamas. His latest project, Dutcher's Hollow, an outdoor wedding venue, is set to begin taking reservations soon.

Chadwick's philosophy centers on sustainability and community improvement. "I don't want to make this area the next Aspen," he said. "But I believe restaurants and businesses should sustain themselves seven days a week—that's my goal."

Fred's has also become a platform for education, hosting interns from Chadwick's alma mater, Plymouth State University in New Hampshire. "Since opening, we've trained four interns in how small businesses operate," Leach said.

The future looks bright for Fred's, with potential expansion into two additional locations nearby, within 20 miles of the original location. Chadwick envisions Fred's as a scalable business that stays true to its roots. "This is a great flagship and proof of concept," he said.

For Chadwick and his family, their connection to the mountaintop runs deep. "We love skiing, hiking, and biking in the summer and the leaf season in the fall," he said. We've made close connections and friends up here. We didn't know anyone when we first came, but this community has been so welcoming."

As Fred's thrives, its mission remains simple: start the day with a smile. "We pride ourselves on good coffee and fresh donuts," Leach said. "We're here daily to start people's day off right."

Fred's Coffee and Donuts is located at 6715 Main St. (Route 23A), between Tannersville and Hunter, across from Ace Hardware. Stop by to enjoy a fresh donut, a hot cup of coffee, and the warm atmosphere of a true community treasure.