Landmark Business "Chutters" of Littleton, NH Transfers Ownership

Littleton, NH.  CenterPoint Business Advisors, Inc. is pleased to announce the sale of the landmark business Chutters of Littleton, NH.  The business was purchased on June 30, 2005 by area residents, Jim Alden & Lynn Beal of Franconia , NH

Chutters was created by Carol & Michael Hamilton in 1995 as a small gift shop but has grown into one of the most unique stores in the country.  Carol & Michael transformed this business into a destination attraction by earning the Guinness World Book of Records for the "Longest Candy Counter in the World".  Chutters sells hundreds of different kinds of candies in almost 700 old -fashioned candy jars plus truffles, homemade fudge, gifts, and specialty food products.  However, the real magic of Chutters is the nostalgic and upbeat experience it creates for customers of all ages.  Here you find old-fashioned penny candy, a talking moose to entertain the children, and the friendliest staff around.  

Chutters has been the icon of the success for Littleton Main Street and its prestigious award in 2003 as "A Great American Main Street" as sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.  Carol & Michael helped lead the revitalization of Littleton 's Main Street
and were the recipients of the 2003 "New Hampshire Small Business People of the Year" by the US Small Business Administration.  Chutters has won many awards & recognitions and has been featured nationally on such venues as the Food Network's Unwrapped TV Program.

Carol & Michael Hamilton stated, "This has been a difficult decision for us to transfer the business but we feel that we have found the right people to take Chutters to the next level of success.  The Chutters staff is excited about helping Lynn & Jim take this business to the next level.  We have had a blast creating this business and have enjoyed working with all of the dedicated and creative merchants and business leaders in Littleton .  We will stay on with Lynn & Jim to provide transitional support but we look forward to spending more time in our gardens and watching the bears at our Franconia home."

Jim Alden & Lynn Beal of Franconia sought a business in the area that would allow them to leverage their customer service, retail and direct marketing experience while enjoying the lifestyle of living in the area.  Jim's background has been senior management roles in direct marketing companies, including VP of Marketing for Garnet Hill.  Lynn has numerous years of experience in customer service and operations experience.

Jim and Lynn stated "This is a terrific opportunity for us.  We recognize that we have some large shoes to fill but we are committed to keeping the traditions and level of service that Mike & Carol and their staff have delivered.  Our first goal is to change nothing and longer-term we will look for ways to leverage the Chutters name and brand into direct sales via catalogue and internet sales.  As excited as we are, our five year old son Hayden thinks he woke up in a dream."

Michael Coyle of CenterPoint Business Advisors, Inc. in Littleton , NH represented the Hamiltons and assisted Lynn Beal & Jim Alden in this transfer.  CenterPoint specializes in business consulting, valuation & brokerage throughout NH and VT.  Michael Coyle stated "bring people together is what I do, and this match was perfect."