When the pandemic shuttered restaurants, most focused on survival. Tuscan Brands, founded by entrepreneur Joe Faro, chose reinvention—supported by Needham Bank as they entered their next stage of growth.
A Family Bakery to a National Food Brand
Joe’s journey began in his family’s Joseph’s Bakery in Lawrence and Haverhill, Massachusetts. While at the University of New Hampshire, he created the business plan for Joseph’s Gourmet Pasta and Sauces, which later grew into the largest specialty pasta producer in the country.
Joe went on to launch Tuscan Brands, now more than ten times larger than it was pre-pandemic. Its modern growth story was forged in crisis: when COVID-19 closed every restaurant, Joe refused to let 1,400 employees go. Instead, he reimagined the business—moving operations outdoors and creating dynamic indoor/outdoor dining experiences.
That innovation sparked Tuscan Village, a thriving mixed-use destination built on resilience and creativity.
Finding the Right Banking Partner for Growth
As Tuscan Brands expanded, Joe realized the company had outgrown its existing lender. Around that time, he learned that longtime colleague Joe Campanelli had joined Needham Bank. The timing couldn’t have been better.
Needham Bank recognized the scale and pace of Tuscan Brands’ ambitions and structured flexible commercial financing that could grow with the company. Today, that partnership is helping fuel multiple new projects—including a new Burlington restaurant and an upcoming Boston development.
“I can pick up the phone and call anyone up to the CEO. Needham Bank has the products and services that fit all types of growth.” — Joe Faro, Founder & CEO, Tuscan Brands
Cash Management Built for a “Right Now” Business
Running a hospitality organization requires real-time insights and cash flow precision. Tuscan Brands relies on Needham Bank’s Cash Management services to keep operations running smoothly across all locations.
Joe describes the transition to Needham Bank as “absolutely seamless.” With robust treasury tools and responsive client support, Tuscan Brands is positioned to continue expanding—whether adding locations or exploring acquisitions.
Why Growing Businesses Choose Needham Bank
Stories like Tuscan Brands highlight what sets Needham Bank apart:
- Flexible Commercial Lending for evolving businesses
- Responsive Relationship Management, including direct access to decision-makers
- Advanced Cash Management Solutions for businesses that need real-time control
- Support for Expansion, Acquisitions, and Multi-location Operations
Whether you’re scaling rapidly or reinventing your business model, Needham Bank provides the financial tools—and the partnership—to help you grow.
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