In Central Oregon, Goody’s has become more than just a candy and ice cream shop; it’s a place where families have created memories for over four decades. Founded by Marne Palmateer in 1984, Goody’s started as a small homemade candy operation in Sunriver. Today, it stands as one of the region’s most recognizable brands, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year while maintaining its hometown charm.
A Family Tradition
On busy summer afternoons, lines stretch outside Goody’s locations in Sunriver and Downtown Bend, as both tourists and locals eagerly await their turn for a scoop of ice cream or a piece of handmade chocolate. The story of Goody’s began with Palmateer making treats in her kitchen, which quickly gained popularity among neighborhood kids and visiting families. This demand led to the opening of the first Goody’s storefront in Sunriver, followed by a second location in a historic building in Bend.
David Bergman, co-owner of Goody’s, notes that the business has expanded across Oregon but remains true to its roots, focusing on family memories and tradition. Many customers share stories of visiting Goody’s as children and now returning with their own families. This nostalgia has been a driving force behind Goody’s success, with the company welcoming approximately 500,000 visitors during the busy season alone.
Community and Growth
Goody’s impact extends beyond tourism, providing jobs for local families. Many employees have started their careers behind the candy counter, with some families having multiple generations work at the shop. Bergman and his business partner, who previously led the parent-teacher committee at Tumalo School, view Goody’s as an opportunity to bring the community together.
Recently, Goody’s has expanded its reach beyond the Pacific Northwest by launching nationwide e-commerce shipping. In its first year, the company fulfilled over 10,000 online orders across all 50 states. Despite this growth, Goody’s remains committed to its Central Oregon roots, continuing to innovate locally with products like Marionberry ice cream made from Oregon-grown berries.
Goody’s journey from a Sunriver kitchen to a nationwide brand is a testament to the power of tradition, community, and family. As Bergman puts it, “The more jobs we can create here in Central Oregon, we will have fulfilled our mission of continuing to make smiles.”
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
