Jerry’s Thriftway focuses on customers

    ISLAND FALLS — Jerry Violette got his start in the grocery business in 1977 as a grocery bagger under Jerry and Bud Bell. In 1988, he bought  Al Ellis’ store and that’s the beginning of Jerry’s Thriftway in Island Falls.
    Today, Jerry’s Thriftway continues to meet the grocery needs of the Island Falls area.    
    “I enjoy working with the people; if I didn’t, I wouldn’t be here,” says Violette. “And I have good help here. We don’t have much turnover. A good portion of them have been here since day one.”
    Over the years, the store has continued to stay focused on its customers and offers the area just about anything they need as far as grocery items go. They have a full-line grocery store, along with a bakery and deli, and an expanded frozen food department and dairy case.
    The frozen food section grew from 15 to 32 doors thanks to new and improved space, and customers are also enjoying an expanded deli section all at everyday low prices.
    “Nobody can touch my deli prices,” said Violette.
    Customers can also purchase lobsters in season and beer. The store also offers anglers fishing supplies and live bait, and the do-it-yourselfer, hardware items. The grocer also has a video section and much more.
    Violette said they’ve been able incorporate hundreds of new items throughout the store and more being added all the time.
    “New items come in just about every week,” he said.
    Violette has three fulltime staff and eight part time workers at the store. Jerry’s Thriftway, located on the 63 Houlton Street in Island Falls, is open Monday through Wednesday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Violette can also be reached by calling 463-2828.