Judy Riddick honored with Women in Business award
Published 7:23 pm Friday, December 13, 2019
- Judy Riddick, the honoree, in front at right, with her daughter, Alice Shaffer; Kim Marks, former chairwoman of the Franklin-Southampton Chamber of Commerce; and Melissa Rose, office manager. From left are Teresa Beale, executive director of the Chamber; Meghan Council, chairwoman; and daughter, Jane Riddick-Fries. -- Submitted
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Judy Riddick, president of The Peanut Patch and FERIDIES, was one of 26 women recently honored with the Women In Business Achievement Award by Inside Business. With her are daughters Alice Shaffer and Jane Riddick-Fries. — Submitted
VIRGINIA BEACH
Judy Riddick, president of The Peanut Patch and FERIDIES, has been lauded as one of the 26 recipients of the Women In Business Achievement Award, which was presented by Inside Business on Tuesday night.
According to information provided by the Teresa Beale, executive director of the Franklin-Southampton Chamber of Commerce, which nominated Riddick, the honorees are picked for their “professional and entrepreneurial accomplishments, power and influence and community involvement. Judy excels in every category!”
Further, “As leader of this long standing business she is often sought out for her trusted advice and business insight. Judy strongly advocates for her industry and community and has mentored many women in management. Stop by The Peanut Patch and offer your congratulations. She will be on the job … her work ethic is legendary.”
Beale added that the Chamber “is fortunate that The Peanut Patch/FERIDIES is a part of our business community.”
The Peanut Patch began 46 years ago when Riddick, her husband, Bob, his brother, Will, and his wife, Gaynelle, created a furniture restoration business and gift shop as a way to make extra money. As the men worked on the furniture, the women decided on selling peanuts, which Riddick recalled weren’t readily available in retail shops. The popularity of selling the snack grew to the point that the sisters-in-law came up with their own method of preparation. The success led to growth from the shop across from the Courtland post office to a site on Business 58.
Riddick told The Tidewater News on Friday morning, “I am totally humbled by this. It is a great honor and I appreciate it so very much. I’m very appreciative of what this award represents, and grateful for the support from the local community through the past 46 years.”
Her advice for women in business: “Pay attention to the details and respect everyone, even those with whom you may disagree.”
She further thanked her children, who moved back in 2000 to take over and help the business to thrive, and “the many, many hard-working and loyal employees who have gotten us to where we are today.”
