Making The Switch To Bank Local:
Howard L. Stoltzfus Construction Company
Howard L. Stoltzfus Construction Company, a well-established company with a history dating back to 1979, recently made a significant decision to switch its banking services to Fleetwood Bank. Howard L. Stoltzfus, the President and Owner of the company, shared his experience in a recent interview, emphasizing the importance of personal relationships in business.
Howard founded his company shortly after graduating from Penn State. Originally focused on small rural projects, the company has since grown to handle larger commercial projects within a 50-mile radius of Berks County, PA. Today, Howard and his team still focus on mainly commercial projects (about 65%), but also has a pipeline constructed of about 35% residential and unique projects.
With a small, multi-skilled team and a strong network of subcontractors, this local construction company prides itself on being flexible and responsive, particularly in emergency situations. “we do a lot of custom work, and we do some repair-type work,” explains Howard. “For example, in the books, we have a bridge that we’re going to repair. Not everybody does those sorts of things, but we can focus on that easily.” Howard and his team have also worked on well-known buildings throughout Berks County, such as The Works and Building 24 in Wyomissing, PA.
Howard’s deep roots in the Oley Valley community are reflected in his contributions to local projects, including several buildings at the Oley Valley Fairgrounds. His company has been a long-term sponsor of the Oley Valley Community Fair, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to the community.
The Difference of Banking Local
In January 2024, Howard L. Stoltzfus Construction Company officially transitioned its banking to Fleetwood Bank. The decision was driven by Howard’s preference for personal interactions over the impersonal nature of larger, online-focused banks. The transition has been smooth, though Howard acknowledges there is always an adjustment period that comes with any changes. Stoltzfus utilizes services like Positive Pay, a fraud prevention measure, which became a priority after the company experienced a fraud incident two years ago. Howard also utilizes a line of credit to foster his business and routine other services, such as checking accounts.
Howard’s relationship with Kevin Bieber, his Relationship Manager at Fleetwood Bank, has been a positive one. He appreciates Kevin’s accessibility and the comfort of being able to discuss concerns with someone who understands his business. Howard also values the personal connection at the local branch, where the staff knows him by name — a small but meaningful and mighty detail in his banking experience. He advises other small business owners to consider the benefits of working with a local bank. “To see the face, to know the players in a bank or any other business, is an asset going forward,” he said. For this company, the move to Fleetwood Bank aligns with their commitment to providing tangible, face-to-face services to their own clients.
This move to local banking with Fleetwood Bank is more than just a business decision for Howard; it’s a reaffirmation of his commitment to personal relationships and community values that have guided his company for nearly 45 years.
