2004 Small Business of the Year Honored

Each year the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors honors local companies that contribute to the county’s economy and its citizens. The intent is to give recognition to small, medium and large organizations that consistently uphold the principles and standards of ethical business practices and that advertise and sell with integrity, participate consistently in community, trade associations and local programs that better our county and region.

The Board of Supervisors, and the selection committee, awarded City Ice, as the recipient of Chesterfield County’s 2004 Small Business of the Year Award. City Ice has demonstrated its dedication and commitment as small business of the year to the community of Chesterfield County.

City Ice

Mark Resnick, the company’s President, purchased the company that was started 100 years ago in 1990. City Ice moved from its original location in Petersburg to a new site in Chesterfield County off Old Bermuda Hundred Road in 1998. They employ 19 full-time employees and add at least ten more employees during the busy season. The small, independent company produces “tube” ice, which is round versus square cubes with a hole in the center. They were the first to manufacture round ice in this area, establishing the “Ice Rounds” brand. Laboratory tests proved Ice Rounds cooled 33 percent faster compared to traditional ice. The factory in Chester produces up to 65 tons of ice a day.

In 1999, they were the first in the industry to design an 8-color process print package with a handle; a pull strip to remove the handle; a zip-lock closure; and a heat-sealed bottom. In 2003, City Ice tested its product in four Ukrops’ stores. In the past three years, City Ice has enjoyed double-digit growth in a very competitive industry.

During Hurricane Isabel, City Ice staff worked 14 to 18-hour days to serve the community and supported the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Mark Resnick and the employee’s of City Ice provided the Emergency Operations Center with over 40 tons of ice for distribution to the citizens of Chesterfield County. City Ice gives back to the community in a variety of ways. Mark believes the community keeps him in business through the support of his product.

Congratulations to Mark Resnick and all the employees of City Ice!