CAFE Member Profile
Country Grocer
by Toni Graeme, CAFE VI Feature Writer
Country Grocer (once called Food Country) first opened in Nanaimo, BC in August 1984 as an independent store buying from a wholesaler. The business was developed with a key set of values in mind. First and most importantly, customers would receive the best in meats, seafood, deli items, baked goods, fresh produce and a wide variety of grocery products at reasonable prices.
Secondly, Country Grocer would provide support to community groups, sports teams, schools and local charities in the neighbourhoods surrounding the stores. Furthermore, team members would be committed to getting to know customers better in order to deliver on their expectations and desires.
Much to everyone's delight, the Nanaimo store was immediately successful and quickly followed up with a second store in 1986. Located in the Esquimalt Shopping Centre in Victoria, BC the store became the primary grocery retailer for this fast growing neighbourhood.
In 1997 Country Grocer saw a unique partnership opportunity to form the Island Independent Buying Group (IIBG). The partnership developed a warehouse and delivery system allowing stores to increase buying volumes significantly. By being able to stock larger quantities of popular products, significant savings were realized by customers, which in turn, earned all stores stronger loyalty.
Even with quick growth Country Grocer remained committed to their core values ensuring that selection, service and community support were integrated into the operation and development of all stores. Customers appreciated this dedication and continued to reward the stores with their business.
Over the next few years, stores improved through upgrades and renovations. In 1999 with an opportunity to expand service to the fast growing up island community of Cobble Hill, the company purchased an existing store to convert to a Country Grocer. In 2000, they undertook a massive renovation to a larger space in the Royal Oak Mall, allowing the store to move into a completely 'new' space. The Royal Oak Country Grocer opened with a fresh new look that customers loved. Thanks to this larger space they were able to continue meeting the needs of a growing customer base in this busy neighbourhood.
In 2005 the Lake Cowichan Country grocer opened its doors to a fresh new grocery store andin October 2008, Country Grocer in Chase River (South Nanaimo) opened its doors to a new 40,000 square foot home. This store boasts a huge produce department, service meat and seafood counters and a full scratch bakery. Also included is a floral department, a deli and in-store cafe featuring freshly made soups, sandwiches and organic coffee. In September 2009 there was a celebration for the grand reopening of renovated stores in Esquimalt and on Salt Spring Island.
Country Grocer's newest store, built from the ground up, on Bowen Road in Nanaimo (1800 Dufferin Crescent), opened October 20th, 2012 in a space of 45,000 square feet. The store includes all the amenities of the south Nanaimo store including a full service cafe.