From small-batch sweets to handcrafted artwork, there’s no shortage of products that are locally made in Summit County. Across the Greater Akron area, local makers continue to shape the community through creative businesses and one-of-a-kind finds that are deeply connected to the region. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one, you’re bound to find something special within Summit County’s thriving small business scene.
Fresh Flavors and Sweet Treats
The area is home to a wide range of businesses creating handcrafted sweets and specialty foods made locally in Summit County.
Akron Honey
Stop into a local coffeehouse or gift shop, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot jars of Akron Honey on the shelves. Founded by Brent Wesley — better known around the community as Wesley the Keeper — this Black-owned business has built a loyal following for its raw urban honey harvested from hives throughout Akron neighborhoods.
You can taste the commitment to quality in creative flavors like bourbon barrel, habanero hot honey and hibiscus honey. Beyond the jars themselves, Akron Honey also spends time educating local students about honeybees and pollinator conservation around the area.
Nona’s Handcrafted Confectionery
You can find that same small-batch innovation over at Nona’s Handcrafted Confectionery in Hudson, where owners Ken and Jessie Obert craft confections with bold flavors and carefully sourced ingredients. Their rotating lineup includes decadent treats like chocolate-covered fruit and beautifully designed bonbons that are especially popular for special occasions and holiday gifts.
Art and Goods Locally Made in Summit County
Summit County’s creative scene extends beyond food; local makers create everything from apparel to ceramics and handcrafted home decor.
The Social Dept.
Located in Cuyahoga Falls, The Social Dept. has gained popularity for its selection of apparel, posters and home goods celebrating Akron and Ohio culture. Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Christy and Andy Taray, this mom-and-pop shop transforms original sketches and ideas into wearable designs inspired by local pride and hometown identity. Their handprinted work combines modern trends, old-school printmaking and strong typography to create pieces that feel both stylish and deeply connected to the community.
Zeber-Martell
In Akron’s Northside District, Zeber-Martell Gallery & Clay Studio blends handcrafted ceramics with a collection of locally made art, jewelry, lighting and home décor. Artists Claudia Zeber-Martell and Michael Martell have spent more than 30 years creating distinctive ceramic pieces that combine sculptural forms with richly detailed surface design. The gallery celebrates Summit County’s creative spirit through one-of-a-kind works that are both functional and artistic.
Don Drumm Studios
For more than 50 years, Don Drumm Studios & Gallery has been a cornerstone of Akron’s arts community, known for its distinctive metalwork, contemporary crafts and whimsical sculptures. Founded by pioneering sculptor Don Drumm and expanded alongside his wife, Lisa, the gallery grew into a creative campus showcasing the work of hundreds of North American artists. From Drumm’s iconic cast- aluminum sun faces to handcrafted jewelry, ceramics and sculptures, the space reflects a deep commitment to artistry, craftsmanship and Akron’s creative spirit.
Creative Spaces That Celebrate Local Makers
Part of what makes Summit County’s creative community stand out is the spaces dedicated to supporting local artists and entrepreneurs. Across the area, visitors can find shops and studios that make it easy to discover products made locally in Summit County.
Akron Glass Works
Hands-on creativity is a big part of the experience at Akron Glass Works, where guests can shop for handcrafted glass art made on-site or sign up for workshops in glassblowing, stained glass and mosaics. Founder Jack Baker was inspired to pursue glassblowing after discovering the work of renowned artist Dale Chihuly, eventually opening Akron Glass Works in 2006 as a space where artists and the community could experience the craft firsthand. Live demonstrations and working studio spaces offer a closer look at the craftsmanship behind each piece.
Northside Marketplace
Northside Marketplace brings together dozens of local vendors under one roof, creating a space to showcase the makers, artists and small businesses that help define Summit County’s creative community. The downtown Akron space has become a go-to spot for discovering things like gifts, handcrafted artwork, specialty foods and small-batch products, all while supporting local entrepreneurs from across the region.
Whether you’re searching for thoughtful gifts or Akron-inspired goods, this creative community makes it easy to shop locally. Start shopping and discover what makes Summit County so special.