Nearly 100 Years In, Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth Keeps It in the Family

A popular Michigan family’s legacy continues. Zehnder’s in Frankenmuth has announced that Nick Shelton is its new president. Shelton becomes the fourth generation of the Zehnder family to lead one of the state’s most recognizable family-run enterprises. It’s a transition that feels less like a corporate promotion and more like the continuation of a family tradition.

A Michigan-Based Family Business That Began in 1929

It all started in 1929, when Shelton’s great-grandparents transformed the New Exchange Hotel into Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth. Nearly a century later, the business has grown far beyond a single dining room, but its foundation remains unchanged: hospitality, tradition, and a belief that shared meals create lasting memories.

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Shelton said:

Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth is a place where families have gathered to celebrate traditions and make memories for nearly 100 years. This company is a symbol of hospitality that means so much to our guests, our community, and the generations of employees who make Zehnder’s so special.

From Drumstick to President

WJRT reports Shelton’s connection to the business began early. As a child, he worked as the beloved Drumstick mascot, eventually moving through nearly every area of the family’s operations. That hands-on path gave him a ground-level understanding of what makes Zehnder’s work and why people keep coming back.

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Most recently, Shelton served as director of golf operations, overseeing more than a decade of consistent growth at The Fortress. A former Division I basketball player at Valparaiso University, he brings a coach’s mentality to leadership.

Shelton also said:

I appreciate the opportunity to coach and guide a team toward success. “The ability to create a game plan and execute it together, there is nothing better.

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Today, Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth includes its iconic downtown restaurant, Splash Village indoor water park, The Fortress golf course, Zehnder’s Marketplace, and the nationally known Snowfest. Later this year, the family will add another chapter with the opening of The Mill at Zehnder Park boutique hotel.