Meet the Founder: Fran Pennypacker

I grew up going to Ocean City, New Jersey, where bikes weren’t just a means of transportation—they were a way of life. For years, I rode with a milk crate zip-tied to the back of my dad’s old Schwinn. It got the job done, but I wanted something with more character, something that matched the style and spirit of the ride.

In 2019, I built my first Penny Crate using a beautiful Brunello di Montalcino wine box. I sanded it, stained it, added a few coats of varnish, glued a penny to the back, and mounted it to my bike. People started asking about it right away. That’s when Pennypack Crates was born.

Each crate is handcrafted with care and attention to detail—from the selection and sanding of wood to the finishing touches and custom-burned designs. They’re built not just to carry your surf gear or groceries, but to turn heads and start conversations. Every Penny Crate is designed to last and stand out.

Today, I’m based in San Diego, continuing to grow the brand with the same love and creativity that started it all.

Thanks for being part of the ride. Yeeww!

Want to learn more about the story behind Pennypack Crates?

Read my interview with SD Voyager

https://sdvoyager.com/interview/inspiring-conversations-with-fran-pennypacker-of-pennypack-crates

FAQs

Your bike will need a bike rack. Once the bike rack is mounted, the Penny Crate will be attached with customized hardware. Installation directions come with the purchase.
Even better. The Penny Crate mounting mechanism is universal.
There are a few reasons. A few generations ago, my family’s last name was Pennypacker. Each crate has a penny inlaid in the wood. The One Cent Penny is always placed Heads Up!
Upon request, the Bike Shops will first install the bike rack, then attach the Penny Crate.