Skip to main content

Our History:

A Legacy of Quality Since 1960

For over six decades, Quaker Maid Meats has been a trusted name in premium frozen meats, proudly family-owned and committed to quality, innovation, and community. From humble beginnings to becoming a leading producer in the industry, our journey reflects dedication to excellence and resilience.

Founding and Early Years

In 1960, Stanley J. Szortyka founded Quaker Maid Meats in Reading, Pennsylvania. As the son of Polish immigrants, Stanley’s early life was marked by hard work and perseverance. After his father’s passing, he began working at the age of 12 to support his family. These experiences instilled in him a deep appreciation for fairness and employee welfare, principles that became foundational to Quaker Maid’s culture.

Growth and Expansion

Under Stanley’s leadership, Quaker Maid Meats flourished, evolving into the largest producer of branded, frozen thin-sliced sandwich steaks in the United States. Today, we produce approximately 55 million pounds of meat annually, serving customers across the nation.

Still Family-Owned, Still Committed to Quality

More than 60 years after its founding, Quaker Maid Meats remains family-owned and operated, now led by Stanley’s children. His son, Sergei Szortyka, serves as CEO, and his daughter, Nancy Deale, serves as COO. Both grew up immersed in the family business, learning every aspect from the ground up.

Their leadership ensures that the company’s core values—quality, integrity, and community commitment—continue to guide everything we do.

Community Engagement

At Quaker Maid Meats, we believe in giving back to the communities that have supported us. Since 1995, we have been proud donors to local organizations such as Opportunity House, reflecting our philosophy of “We live here, we give here.” This commitment underscores our dedication to fostering sustainable communities and supporting those in need.

The following is a partial list of the many local and regional charitable organizations to which we contribute and support:

  • Alvernia Univ Reading Collegiate Scholars Program
  • Animal Rescue League
  • Berks Art Council – Berks Jazz Fest and Berks Blues Fest
  • Berks County Community Foundation
  • Berks County Solid Waste
  • Berks Nature (formerly Berks Conservancy)
  • Safe Berks
  • Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Berks County
  • Blacktop, Inc.
  • Breast Cancer Research Foundation
  • Co-County Wellness
  • CYO Youth Dinner
  • Helping Harvest
  • Humane Society Berks County
  • National MS Society
  • Olivet Boys & Girls Club
  • Opportunity House
  • Reading Fire Dept Scuba Team
  • Reading Health System Foundation
  • Reading Hospital Internship Program
  • Reading Musical Foundation
  • Reading Public Museum
  • Special Olympics
  • St. Joseph Medical Center Foundation
  • The Salvation Army
  • Toys for Tots
  • Yocum Institute
  • Hope Rescue Mission

Looking Ahead

While we honor our rich history, Quaker Maid Meats is continually looking forward. We embrace innovation, sustainability, and evolving consumer needs to ensure that we not only meet but exceed expectations. From updated packaging to digital engagement and expanded product offerings, we remain committed to maintaining the uncompromising quality that has defined Quaker Maid for generations.

From our family to yours, thank you for making Quaker Maid part of your meals for over 60 years. Here’s to many more!

Great Tasting Meat Never Goes Out of Style!

For over 60 years, Quaker Maid Meats has been serving up quality, flavor, and tradition—because some things are just too good to change.