Our Story

Built on Hard Work Since 1957

Laubscher Cheese Company was founded on hard work, craftsmanship, and a deep passion for the cheese industry. What began as one man’s dedication to quality and service has grown into a thriving, multi-generational company proudly serving customers for more than six decades.

Bob Laubscher was born and raised on a farm in Iowa. As a teenager, Bob and his family moved to Sugarcreek, where he began learning the craft of Swiss cheese making at Broad Run Dairy. He later continued refining his skills while working alongside Fred Schneiter at Sugar-Creek Dairy.



Bob’s strong work ethic and passion for cheese making were evident early on, laying the foundation for what would eventually become Laubscher Cheese Company.

The Early Years of Bob Laubscher

Bob proudly served his country for four years overseas during World War II, including participation in Normandy Landings at Omaha Beach.

After returning home from military service, Bob briefly explored other career paths before realizing his true calling remained in the cheese industry. He returned to work at several respected operations, including Pleasant View Dairy, Champion Dairy, and Farmerstown Cheese.



In the evenings, Bob worked additional hours washing and caring for aging cheese wheels by hand — removing each wheel from the shelf, washing the rind with salt and water, and carefully returning it to age properly. His commitment to quality and craftsmanship became the hallmark of his career.

Service to Country and Return to the Cheese Industry

In 1952, bankers from Mercer traveled to the Sugarcreek area searching for an experienced cheese maker to operate a new Swiss cheese plant. Bob moved his family to Fredonia and took over management of Fairview Swiss Cheese.



After five successful years in cheese production, Bob saw an opportunity to build something of his own.

A New Beginning in Pennsylvania

The Birth of Laubscher Cheese Company

In 1957, Laubscher Cheese Company was officially founded.



Starting from scratch, Bob built the business through determination, long hours, and exceptional customer service. He personally found customers, cut and packaged cheese, and delivered products himself. His hands-on approach and commitment to doing things the right way earned the trust of customers throughout the region.

At age 65, Bob retired and passed leadership of the company to his son-in-law, Gary Watts. Even in retirement, Bob remained closely connected to the business and continued visiting the plant every day.

Bob passed away on June 17, 2008, but his legacy continues to guide the company today through the values he built it upon: honesty, hard work, and dedication to customers.

In 1990, Kent McQuaid became president and faithfully led the company until his retirement in June 2020.



Today, the company is led by third-generation grandson Kevin Watts, with the fourth generation also actively involved in daily operations.

Continuing the Legacy

Today, Laubscher Cheese Company remains a thriving operation with approximately 40 dedicated employees working across our cutting room, shredding room, trucking department, mechanical operations, and office staff.

While the company has grown over the years, our mission remains the same: delivering quality products with the same hardworking and honest values that Bob Laubscher built the company on back in 1957.



We are proud of our history, grateful for our customers, and excited to continue serving future generations for years to come.

Proud of Our Past. Focused on Our Future.