We had a situation here in Alton with Hannafords and another little family owned grocery store (McGraths) that is rather similar to the Hannafords/Heath situation in Senter Harbor.
The difference is that McGrath's decided to go into the five-and-dime business right as Hannafords was opening. Although I wish the family well in their new business, there are many times when I wish they had stayed opened. (As a side note, if you're looking for neat, old-fashioned toys for the kids for Christmas, McGrath's has some cool stuff that doesn't take batteries!)
It was far easier to get in and out of McGrath's and I felt their prices were fair. If I have to go grocery shopping with kids, I prefer taking them into a little one like McGrath's vs. going into a big, bright store like Hannafords.
I thought it would be smart if they developed their bakery and meat section a little better and maybe brought in some wines and beers that were out of the ordinary - maybe something like Develder's in Wolfeboro....
I agree that Heath's will be fine. They already have some of the speciality items going on that Hannaford's can't touch; Heath's is "boutique" like in some ways. From the way the parking lot is usually full, I'd wager that people have NO trouble finding the place or the sign for it!
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