CHILTON, Wis., Dec. 5, 2023— In February 2023, Ben Novak assumed ownership of Vern’s Cheese, marking the beginning of a new era for the iconic company, which was founded in Chilton in 1964. Today, Vern’s Cheese is a converter and distributor of hundreds of cheeses, as well as a variety of other Wisconsin food brands.
Ben’s decision to lead Vern’s Cheese is a tribute to his family’s heritage and a bold step toward the future. The Novak family’s cheese legacy began with Ben’s great-grandfather George, who set the stage as a cheesemaker in the Crandon area. Ben’s grandfather, William Sr., and father, William Jr., went on to work in cheesemaking until the family’s cheese factory in Denmark, Wisconsin, was sold to Erico Auricco, who built what is now BelGioioso Cheese. The Novaks were consistently recognized for their contributions to the cheese industry, including winning awards at state fairs.
As a fourth-generation Novak to work in the cheese industry, Ben, who said his “bloodline is essentially milk and whey,” proudly holds a license as a Wisconsin Cheese Grader with the number 520, which was passed down from his grandfather.
“With my deep roots in the cheese industry, I plan to continue the legacy of distributing quality cheese and Wisconsin products with the great service that has defined Vern’s Cheese for generations,” Ben shared. He aspires to make Vern’s the “ultimate cheese connection” while expanding sales and improving distribution.
Beyond his role as the new owner of Vern’s Cheese, Ben Novak is a family man. He and his wife, Lindsey, proudly call Northeastern Wisconsin home, where they live with their three daughters.
About Vern’s Cheese:
Founded in 1964 as a small, one-truck operation serving Northeast Wisconsin, Vern’s Cheese has evolved into a proud distributor of leading Wisconsin cheese brands across the Midwest. Our commitment to bringing the exceptional flavors of Wisconsin cheese extends to customers in Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois and Upper Michigan. Our many customers include restaurants, grocery stores, specialty shops, wineries, breweries, distilleries and, of course, anybody who loves good cheese!
