Updated
Updated · WZTV · Jun 19
Barney's Sweet Shop Opens Main Street HQ, Expanding Jobs for 7 Disabled Workers
Updated
Updated · WZTV · Jun 19

Barney's Sweet Shop Opens Main Street HQ, Expanding Jobs for 7 Disabled Workers

1 articles · Updated · WZTV · Jun 19

Summary

  • Ashland City-based Barney's Sweet Shop is opening a new Main Street headquarters and retail site, with a June 27 grand opening aimed at expanding employment for people with disabilities.
  • Growing demand for its handcrafted treats drove the move, and the larger facility is set to boost production while adding jobs in a workplace designed for neurodiverse team members.
  • The woman-owned business currently employs seven people with disabilities, and founder Harmony Hensley said the expansion will create more opportunities for workers often overlooked by traditional employers.
  • The new site brings retail sales, manufacturing, order fulfillment and community programming under one roof as Barney's builds on a mission tied to more than 91 gourmet popcorn flavors and handcrafted confections.

Insights

If hiring people with disabilities is a smart business strategy, why do so many companies still overlook this talent pool?
What does a truly 'neuroinclusive' workplace look like, and how can other businesses replicate its success?
Beyond feel-good stories, what data proves a 'purpose-driven' company is actually changing its employees' lives?