Milan's Copper Top Market is redefining the way people think about beef and local goods. Founded by two families who share a deep passion for quality beef, locally sourced products, and making a positive impact,
Copper Top Market is a place where you can enjoy large sums of beef and call it "research," according to the company website.
Jerod Blakely, a 2010 Huron High School graduate and his family partnered up with Artie Wolfe, a 1985 Huron graduate and his family to create this unique retail entity.
The roots of Copper Top Market can be traced back to the two families seeing an opportunity to transform their shared hobby of cattle ranching into something that could benefit the wider community.
“The families decided to combine their resources and expertise to create a business that would not only provide high-quality beef but also support local producers and foster a sense of community,” Blakely says.
Before this partnership, both families had their own commitments and responsibilities.
"Even though both families have united to establish the market and operate the cattle ranch, we continue to maintain our pre-existing commitments,” Blakely says. “Our 'day' jobs and the responsibilities of raising our families remain integral to our daily lives."
This dedication to their existing responsibilities is reflected in the limited operating hours of Copper Top Market, as the owners strive to strike a harmonious balance between all their commitments. The market is only open on Thursdays from 5-7 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
When it came to deciding who would handle what within the business, Blakely emphasizes that it happened organically based on their passions and areas of expertise. Both families have taken on central roles, from inventory management and administrative tasks to crafting marketing strategies and strategic planning.
One of the standout features of Copper Top Market is its distinctive copper countertop, custom-crafted by the
Bucyrus Copper Kettle Works. This countertop left a lasting impression on visitors, leading to the rebranding of the business from Firelands Provisions to Copper Top Market.
“We find (the name) to be catchier and more unforgettable," Blakely says.
What truly sets Copper Top Market apart is its commitment to providing pasture-raised, grass-fed, and grass-finished flash-frozen beef. The beef is sourced locally from
Lone Wolfe Ranch in Milan, which spans more than 100 acres. The cattle at Copper Top Market enjoy spacious, open grazing areas and practice rotational grazing to benefit the environment.
"Our commitment to the well-being of our animals extends to humane processing," Blakely says.
This dedication to the welfare of their animals is a reflection of their values.
But why choose to raise beef this way?
"In the realm of beef suppliers, finding one that specializes in pasture-raised, grass-fed, and grass-finished beef in this area can be quite challenging," Blakely says. “Copper Top Market's beef is not only free from antibiotics and hormones but also boasts nutritional benefits. Grass-fed beef contains fewer total fats and calories per pound, along with higher levels of essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and fewer saturated fats compared to grain-fed beef. This healthier and more sustainable approach to beef production aligns with the values of many conscious consumers.”
When it comes to the environment, Copper Top Market's practices have a positive impact as well.
"Consumer choices regarding pasture-raised and grass-fed beef often diverge from those who prioritize cost-efficiency and potentially the more indulgent flavor of conventionally raised beef over concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact," Blakely says. “By choosing pasture-raised, grass-fed, and grass-finished beef, consumers can support sustainable farming practices that benefit both the animals and the environment.”
Copper Top Market's mission is clear: to provide high-quality, locally sourced beef and products while promoting sustainable farming practices, supporting local producers, and fostering a sense of community through engaging events and offerings.
In the coming months and years, customers can expect to see an even greater commitment to locally sourced products, as Copper Top Market expands its range of Ohio-made goods. Additionally, the market plans to enhance community engagement through exciting events such as brisket smoking classes and hot sauce tastings.
Copper Top Market is more than just a place to buy beef; it's a community-driven establishment that values quality, sustainability, and the well-being of its customers and the environment. Whether you're a beef enthusiast or simply looking for local, wholesome goods, Copper Top Market is a destination worth exploring.