PEOPLE, FAMILY, COMMUNITY
We wouldn’t be 50 years into this business without an amazing team of people. Founded in 1968 as a family owned business, Plain & Fancy continues to be run and owned by the Achey family today. Our family-centered mindset maintains top priority, allowing us to give back to the very same community that has supported us throughout our journey.
THIS IS OUR STORY
1968
Over 50 years ago
Plain & Fancy founder John Achey’s hobby was making cabinets. They were handcrafted, hand rubbed, extraordinarily handsome cabinets. The kind he’d be proud to have in his own home. In 1968, his “hobby” turned into the pursuit of a dream when John, his wife, Loretta, and just four “employees” - their kids - began building cabinetry in their Richland, PA garage. One of America’s most sought after custom cabinetry brands was born. It was named, quite simply, for the cabinets they made. This is when Plain & Fancy was born.
1972
First plant opens in Richland, PA.
Outgrowing the garage, the Achey’s took the leap and opened their first plant. No small feat, considering we were in a recession. Although tiny compared to today’s operation, the plant would do the trick for more than a decade to come.
1984
Due to exponential growth
It was time to move and expand again. Cabinetry construction, finishing operations and corporate offices were moved to Plain & Fancy’s current location in Schaefferstown. Cabinet doors were still being made in Richland. With newfound room, Plain & Fancy continued to grow, as did its reputation for crafting fine custom cabinetry.
1998
The passing of the torch
After 30 years at the helm, John Achey named his successor. Eldest son, George “Butch” Achey, became president and continues in that role today. Although officially retired, custom cabinetry was in John’s blood -- so he remained an active daily fixture at the shop.
2002
Farewell to our founder
In June 2002 John Achey passed away. The industry lost a great leader and innovator. And the Plain & Fancy family lost their kind and caring patriarch. But John rests peacefully knowing that every cabinet that leaves his shop is precisely the way he would want it to be.
2003
NKBA Hall of Fame
John Achey is inducted into the NKBA Hall of Fame. In 2003, John Achey’s distinguished achievements, leadership, and long time devotion to the kitchen and bath industry were officially recognized with his induction into the National Kitchen & Bath Association Hall of Fame. During his career, John’s pursuit of excellence didn’t stop at Plain & Fancy. He pioneered revolutionary innovations that centered the kitchen around the cabinet: more progressive designs and styling, the use of new materials and finishes, and experimentation with accessories.
2004
John Achey’s dream comes true
John had always wanted all of Plain & Fancy’s manufacturing to be close together, at one location, in Schaefferstown, PA. He didn’t live to see this, but his Plain & Fancy family made sure it became reality. Plain & Fancy is now crafting cabinet doors at its new, state-of-the-art door manufacturing facility.
2008
Finishing Operations Expansion
Finishing operations were expanded to include a new 44,000 square foot building, which features an automated Cefla finishing line. Artisan-rendered hand finishing was blended with state-of-the-art finishing technology to create a flawless finish you have to see to believe.
2018
Celebrating 50 Years
Dealers, vendors and honorary guests came together in September of 2018 to celebrate 50 years as a family in the kitchen cabinet industry. For three generations, Plain & Fancy has upheld the legacy of its founder, John Achey, of caring, personal partnerships with team members, dealers, representatives and customers.