Statehouse Honors Jeffersonville Candy Store
A historic southern Indiana confectionery is being recognized for its enduring economic impact across the state. Mike Braun honored Schimpff’s Confectionery in Jeffersonville with the Will Koch Indiana Tourism Leadership Award during a ceremony at the Statehouse.
The award stands as Indiana’s highest tourism honor. It bears the name of Will Koch, the long-time owner of Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari, recognizing individuals whose contributions, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to the community have impacted tourism across the state.
Schimpff’s sits at 347 Spring St. in downtown Jeffersonville. The Clark County city of 54,100 residents sits across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky.
Generations of Craftsmanship and Longevity
The business opened in April 1891 and operates continuously at its original downtown address. Jill and Warren Schimpff, the fourth-generation owners running the landmark shop, accepted the Will Koch Indiana Tourism Leadership Award on Oct. 27, 2026, according to a news release from the governor’s office.
“The Schimpff family’s remarkable longevity in business shows how dedication, craftsmanship, and community commitment can build something that lasts for generations,” Braun said in a statement. “Today we recognize their hard work and their impact on their local community as well as the state of Indiana.”
The family-owned enterprise recently shifted leadership. In 2026, the Schimpffs passed the torch to sixth-generation owners Steve Shepherd and Beth Shepherd, according to the candy store’s website. Earlier this year, the shop earned national recognition when it was named the Best Candy Store in America by USA Today.
Broader Recognition Across Indiana Tourism
The Statehouse ceremony also celebrated other regional leaders and hospitality workers. Sonya Nash, CEO of Visit Shipshewana/LaGrange County, received the Visit Indiana Leadership Award. Eighteen tourism workers across the state received Hoosier Hospitality Awards, according to the governor's office.
