Anichini's Dollenmaier receives VT award

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 5/14/2001 6:00:00 AM

TUNBRIDGE, VT — The recipient of the Vermont Small Businessperson of 2000 is Susan Dollenmaier, president and founder of Anichini, a firm, based here, that designs and markets luxury linens, home textiles, and decorative accessories.

The award recognizes Dollenmaier for blending economic success with socially-conscious business practices. While raising Anichini out of virtually nothing, Dollenmaier raised the bar on the definition of corporation responsibility, according to the company. She was credited with growing the company without compromising her philanthropic vision and community-minded values by offering outstanding benefit packages, including profit-sharing, food co-op, gym membership, and child care. Anichini also donates a considerable amount of cash and merchandise to local and national charities.

The nomination for the award came from Deborah Matthews, Anichini's general manager, who praised Dollenmaier for having the "confidence, vision and willingness to reduce her compensation, make painful cuts in expenses and work harder to create new markets," during difficult times.