The Antigo/Langlade County Chamber of Commerce held their annual banquet Tuesday, November 10th.  It was a great event offering dinner, raffles, a dessert auction, awards and guest speaker Craig Culver of the Culver’s Restaurant Franchise.

The Culver family has been in the restaurant business for over 50 years.  Craig worked at the family restaurants during his college breaks.  On July 18, 1984, Craig and his family opened the first Culver’s in Sauk City, Wisconsin. In 1987, the franchising arm, Culver Franchising System, Inc. was established.  The first successful franchise was opened in Baraboo, Wisconsin in 1990.  Today, there are over 550 Culver’s restaurants in 22 states.  Craig is actively involved with the business as a coach, cheerleader, and mentor to all franchisees and their teams.

Craig and his family took a vision and created a niche-market restaurant which features burgers and frozen custard.  By wearing several hats, he has built his career through a commitment to doing what’s right for his guests, team members, and franchisees.

Craig takes an active role in a variety of organizations.  He is a member of the National & Wisconsin Restaurant Associations. He is also a board member of the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Foundation, the Bank of Prairie du Sac and Kwik Trip.

Big Business of the Year: Ho-Chunk Gaming Casino

Medium Business of the Year: Culver’s of Antigo

Small Business of the Year: Zelazoski Wood Products

Hometown Business of the Year: Langlade County Humane Society