The Country Print Shop History
On April 30, 1973, The Country Print Shop opened its doors for business. It was a very humble beginning to say the least. The business not only opened on a shoestring, but in a makeshift renovated section of a barn on Maple Avenue in Middleburg.
Ownership tried desperately to convince a local bank that it would be a wise investment to loan starting money for this unborn establishment. The bank president did not share the same enthusiasm - denying loan applications up to this point. On a sunny spring day, a bank director delivered good news. He suggested to the president to give the new venture $2,500.00 to start up.
Even as far back in time as 1973, $2,500.00 was not that substantial an amount of money to buy machines and support accounts receivables. Somehow ownership pulled it off buying a used printing press and miscellaneous bits and pieces.
Founding owners Leon and Barbara Spangler, worked very hard putting in long hours to establish their business. After a move to the present location on Shuman Street, the business grew in leaps and bounds and saw a need to hire two employees.
On February 19, 1975, the Spanglers began what many people believe to be the most successful print publication of its kind in Pennsylvania. The Shopper, which is distributed each Thursday morning, is free to anyone interested. It features free personal ads for the general public and also offers businesses the opportunity to buy a space at a fair price. The reputation of this award winning publication is of the highest standards. Many of their business clients have never missed being included in an issue.
Presently the business operates out of a 6,000 square feet facility. The most modern and up to date equipment, all of which is computer driven, is used in all phases of production. The Country Print Shop employs 8 full time and 3 part time people. There are 9 Shopper delivery people. The Spanglers, still very active in the business, are grooming their two daughters for eventual second generation ownership and another 30 years of success. After that...well, the grandchildren are coming along, too.