Pretzel Factory

Cranberry's Pretzel Factory Gets a New Twist

There’s nothing soft about the mean streets of Philadelphia where fictional boxer Rocky Balboa rose to fame after pounding his opponents into the ground. But for young Dan Dizio, an enterprising 11-year old, there was one exception: soft pretzels.

Building on his success selling pretzels at a busy intersection in the city’s downtown, Dan organized kids from his neighborhood to work for him in other areas of the city. Dan’s business idea grew and in 1998, together with a college roommate, he opened the first Philly Pretzel Factory. It was a huge success which today boasts more than 160 stores in 19 states, including one in Cranberry Commons. Since last July, the owners of that franchise have been the husband-wife team of Joseph and Jessica Wuenschell.

The couple, who are themselves Cranberry residents, have made their Factory store a family enterprise with several other relatives who also work there including the Wuenschell’s nieces, sister, father, and sons Anthony, 22, and Christopher, 20, who come in during college breaks.

The Factory’s menu is filled with different varieties of “Philly-Style” soft pretzels – hand twisted and freshly baked. An array of specialty drinks and dipping sauces enhance the pretzel taste, while monogrammed merchandise including “Get Twisted” tee shirts, beach towels, baby bibs, water bottles and mustard dips speak to the company’s public persona.

But Cranberry isn’t Philadelphia, and the family knows it. “We give to the community as much as we possibly can,” Jessica said. “Donating to the Elks, our school district, and other non-profit organizations is vitally important to us. It’s who we are.”

The Philly Pretzel Factory, which is open seven days a week, also offers party trays as well as specialty items that are perfect for special events. Trays can be ordered online or by calling 724-776-5850.