Julia Birnn Fields is welcomed to the stage and presented with the Outstanding Business of the Year Award by VermontBiz Publisher Katie Kittell on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Hotel Champlain in Burlington. VermontBiz Photo.
Award Presented at the Vermont Economic Conference
VermontBiz and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce Birnn Chocolates of Vermont as the recipient of the Outstanding Business of the Year Award. The award was presented on January 27 at the Vermont Economic Conference, the state’s premier economic gathering of business and policy leaders.
Founded in 1915, Birnn Chocolates of Vermont represents more than a century of craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and enduring commitment to doing business with integrity. Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, the company has grown into a nationally distributed brand while keeping its roots and its production firmly planted in Vermont.
“Birnn Chocolates of Vermont is deeply honored to be named Outstanding Business of the Year,” said Julia Birnn Fields, fourth generation owner. “Choosing to build and grow our business in Vermont was an intentional decision. It allows us to operate in a place where relationships matter and where businesses have the opportunity to make a real, positive impact. Today, every truffle we sell in all 50 states is made right here in South Burlington. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, including many employees who have been with us for decades, and the opportunity I have, as the fourth generation, to carry forward our family’s legacy of doing good, honest business while contributing meaningfully to Vermont’s economy.”
Photo: Katie Kittell, publisher of VermontBiz presents the 2025 Outstanding Business of the Year plaque to Julia Birnn Fields, president & owner of Birnn Chocolates of Vermont. VermontBiz photo.
Photo: President and Owner Julia Birnn Fields accepts the 2025 Outstanding Business of the Year Award on behalf of Birnn Chocolates of Vermont. With family, Bill & Janet Birnn (left) and parents Jane & Jeff Birnn (right). VermontBiz photo.
Birnn Chocolates of Vermont exemplifies what it means to grow with purpose, balancing innovation and scale with deep respect for people, place, and community. The company is known not only for its premium truffles, but also for being a trusted employer, a reliable wholesale partner, and a business that has chosen to invest long-term in Vermont.
“Birnn Chocolates of Vermont reflects the very best of Vermont business,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “For more than a century, this family-owned company has shown that you can grow, compete nationally, and stay deeply rooted in Vermont. Their commitment to quality, workforce stability, and local investment embodies what it looks like when businesses strengthen both the economy and the communities around them.”
Katie Kittell, Publisher of VermontBiz, echoed that sentiment. “Outstanding Business of the Year honors companies that demonstrate leadership, resilience, and positive impact over time,” said Katie Kittell. “Birnn Chocolates of Vermont stands out for its longevity, its values, and its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. Their story is one that deserves to be celebrated statewide.”
For 35 years, VermontBiz and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce have partnered to present the Outstanding Business of the Year Award, recognizing the state’s most dynamic and community-minded companies.
About VermontBiz
VermontBiz is the state's most respected business publication. Since 1972, VermontBiz has published statewide business news, economic and political news and commentary, business and individual profiles, data, analysis, and statistics.
About the Vermont Chamber of Commerce
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, we prioritize collaboration and uphold the core values that define our state. As the preeminent not-for-profit business organization, we advocate, build community, and provide resources for businesses statewide.
Montpelier, VT (January 13, 2025) – VermontBiz
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