GREENE COUNTY
Cheesecake, the yummy concoction of cream and cheese, is a favorite treat of many.
The two kinds, New York cheesecake and traditional, offer a delectable option for dessert or about anytime during the day. Jack’s Cheesecake, a private label and distributor of cheesecake, is now offered in Greensboro at Ripe Thing Market, downtown.
Jack’s Cheesecake was born out of the efforts of an autistic and talented young cook, Jack Leach of Watkinsville. He became enamored with cheesecake, having helped his grandmother cook one three years ago.
His grandmother recognized his talent, having sampled his own recipe and soon ordered some pans off Amazon.
A steady stream of cheesecakes ensued in his parents’ kitchen with clever adaptations of routine ingredients and flavors.
Having won a first-place standing at a “Taste of Georgia” contest with just a slice, Jack’s Cheesecake was born. What began as childhood prowess with cooking, Leach and his father, Brent, recognized a business opportunity that could be private-labeled and distributed locally.
Soon, the cheesecakes, previously mass cooked in a standard home kitchen, were moved to a commercial kitchen to best meet delivery needs.
“None of this could have happened without Jack,” said his father. “I eventually quit my job to devote my time fully to his new business. Our first best-selling flavor was salted caramel and this is what will be sold in Greensboro.”
Last year, more than $100,000 dollars in retail revenue alone was earned.
Prospective retailers and customers all over Georgia inquired about selling the cheesecakes. It is now sold throughout key markets and shipped from the company’s website, jackscheesecake.com.
“Our customers here at the market have come to expect the best quality and variety available of many items we sell here,” said Ken McCord of Ripe Thing Market.
“We were impressed with the capabilities of this one young man and his father and wanted to bring the dessert offering right here to Greensboro.
We support local businesses and want to offer all Made-in-Georgia products.”
Greene County Commissioner Jeffery Smith, who represents District 2 and the city of Greensboro, was on hand last week to help welcome the first shipment to the market.
“It is always encouraging to see our businesses benefit from varied product offerings to local businesses,” he said. “I am sure our residents and visitors alike will enjoy the desert product here at the market.”