When it comes to a smooth running, family-owned business, Richard and Alleshia Walker, owners of the Cracker Barrel IGA in Brandon Township have what it takes.
‘I’ve grown up here,? said son Rich Walker. ‘The people are the best part of this business.?
According to Richard Walker, his son, Rich, and wife Alleshia basically run the store.
‘I’m just a big helper,? said the senior Walker. ‘When they ask for it, I help because if you get too many people in the pot you get a mess.?
‘I’m very proud of Rich and the way he runs this store, he does a great job,? he said.
Serving the Oxford-Brandon-Clarkston area for more than 20 years, the Walkers know what their customers need and do their best to accommodate.
In 1991, the Walkers expanded the store to bring more diverse grocery and convenience products to their growing community. Dan Feber brought in Action Drugs for customer convenience.
With an eye toward further community growth, Rich Walker said he is planning to expand the produce department, making it larger for customer convenience
Plans to expand the fresh meat department will accommodate the personalized custom meat cutting services. Seasonally, staff butchers cater to deer processing and sending out meat for smoking. To celebrate the meat department expansion, Walker plans to run periodic meat sale specials.
While the sizable fresh deli counter draws a full lunch crowd, Walker plans to create a new bakery section in the store to satisfy the morning sweet tooth with muffins or quick party treat cakes and cookies.
Another change the family plans to make is to introduce Parade products onto the shelves.
‘In working with Parade products, we will be able to pass on lower costs to our customers, making for better customer service,? said Rich Walker.
While the store already carries much more than a local neighborhood grocery with a full line of health and beauty aids, a large selection of beer and wine and a vast selection of liquors, the family goal is to add international specialty food products and an extensive frozen food selection.
In a pinch for houseware and hardware convenience, the Cracker Barrel carries everything from propane to gift and stationary items, and will soon include an economy line of dollar selections.
If it’s business to take care of, the Cracker Barrel has money order, ATM, and fax services as well.
‘I know 75 percent of the customers,? said Walker ‘It helps to give them that personal touch.?
The Cracker Barrel is located at 5500 Oak Hill Road in Brandon Township. Hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Telephone is (248) 628-6888.