Alaska has a new family-owned grocery store; grocery generosity always gets the W

Grocery stores are like people—they come in all different shapes and sizes. And here at The Local Checkout, I’ll be taking a closer look through a wide lens of independent grocery stores. Because just like people—they all matter.   

The Far West
Tucked away in one of the most scenic and beautiful communities in Washington is A&J Market in Skamania. This independent grocer located in the southwestern part of the state is also the 2022-23 Retailer of the Year by the Washington Food Industry Association (WFIA).

Owners Andra and John Mobley were recently presented the award for their commitment to the food industry and business leadership, along with their dedication to the prosperity, ethics and image of the independent food industry and WFIA.

“A&J Market exemplifies the spirit of the independent grocer. Their dedication to both their staff and the community at large is reflected in everything they do,” said WFIA President and CEO Tammie Hetrick in a statement. “It is an honor to celebrate them and for all they do for this community.” Congratulations!

The Last Frontier
Independent grocery news further west of the Continental Divide worth sharing is the latest opening from Three Bears Alaska. The family-owned chain of grocery stores opened its newest store in Saxman/Ketchikan in southeastern Alaska.  

The new store, which opened on Wednesday included a presentation by the Cape Fox Dancers. Take a minute to watch this traditional performance here. I haven’t been to Alaska, but I bet the views coming out of the grocery store are breathtaking.

Grocery sweepstakes with a mountain view
Colorado-based Natural Grocers on Thursday announced its special summer sweepstakes at its Colorado Springs locations.

The family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer is offering its shoppers the chance to win $100 worth of groceries as well as a weekend getaway for two at the Broadmoor Resort, which in case you didn’t know, is the world’s longest-running Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond Resort.

Anyone in Colorado Springs reading this should enter because who doesn’t love free groceries? And a chance to stay at the grand resort that is the destination for presidents, celebrities and foreign dignitaries would certainly be a great summer getaway. Free groceries and a picturesque mountain view? Yes, please!
 
Grocer generosity for the W
This week’s shout-out that deserves the hashtag #KindessCostsNothing goes to Jacksonville Jaguars Daniel Thomas who returned to his local high school earlier this month to give away groceries to families at his alma mater. Thomas attended Robert E. Lee High School in Montgomery, Alabama.

The grocery giveaway reminds me of NBA superstar Jimmy Butler’s generosity at grocery stores. The former Chicago Bulls player told Chicago Magazine in 2015 that he has a rule for the grocery store—he’s buying. So, if you see Jimmy Butler in line at the grocery store. Get behind him. 

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