Crystal Creamery officials have announced that Tom Hughes has been appointed Chief Executive Officer/President, ushering in a new chapter of leadership for one of California’s oldest and most trusted dairy brands.
Hughes, a seasoned executive with deep experience in the dairy and consumer goods industries, assumes the role with a strong commitment to advancing Crystal Creamery’s legacy of quality, service, and community trust.
“It is an honor to lead this remarkable company,” Hughes said. “Crystal Creamery has been a cornerstone of the West for 125 years, and I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team as we build on that foundation and prepare for future growth.”
Crystal Creamery continues to navigate an increasingly complex and competitive landscape marked by rising costs, evolving regulations, and shifting consumer expectations. Hughes emphasized that the company’s core values — Quality, Service, Honesty, Our People, and Excellence — will guide its strategic decisions as it adapts to industry challenges.
“Our people remain our greatest strength,” Hughes said. “Across Production, Quality, Sales, Marketing, Logistics, HR, and Finance, our teams demonstrate exceptional skill, resilience, and commitment. These qualities are essential as we redouble our efforts to provide our customers and consumers with the highest quality dairy products while continuing to improve our operational efficiency.”
Hughes acknowledged that the road ahead will require thoughtful adjustments and shared sacrifice but expressed full confidence in the company’s resilience.
“Crystal Creamery has weathered many challenges over its long history — and every time, we have emerged stronger,” he said. “We will do so again.”
Looking ahead, Hughes has set a clear priority: reconnecting with employees, customers, partners, farms, and communities to strengthen Crystal Creamery’s reputation for producing exceptional dairy products. “My personal goal is simple,” he noted. “By the end of the year, I want to hear one phrase everywhere I go: ‘Wow, we love your products!’ That reaction is a signal that we’re delivering on our mission and moving toward even greater success.”
Crystal Creamery is one of California’s oldest dairy brands, producing a wide range of high‑quality dairy products for families throughout the Western United States.
In the leadership role, Hughes will succeed Dennis Roberts, who is retiring after a distinguished 17-year career at Crystal Creamery. Roberts began his tenure at the company as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing and spent his final six years as the Chief Executive Officer/President.
“Crystal Creamery greatly appreciates and thanks Dennis for his commitment and leadership,” officials noted in a statement released on Friday, Jan. 30. “We wish him the very best as he begins a well-deserved retirement.”
