Two years after taking the reins of Meaford’s sole grocery store, owners Pina and Kevin Godard are planning a renovation to Godard’s Your Independent Grocer in the fall.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been two years already! We’re so excited to start year three! We can’t thank our incredible staff and customers enough for their hard work and loyalty,” Pina Godard told The Independent. “Our team is excited to announce that our store will be bringing more service and value to our community with our upcoming renovation coming this fall. While not expanding the store, the upcoming renovation will see lots of changes and fresh ideas that maximizes the shopping experience throughout the store.”
The Godards say that the renovation will include a new multi-cultural section, expansion of produce offerings, more variety in the meat department, and the bakery will receive a “much needed face lift.”
“We’re really excited about the new Deli and Meals To Go section, as we’ll be able to expand that growing segment and offer our customers more convenient service and grab-and-go meals. The reno will allow us to continue to add to our assortment that we’ve been working on the last two years,” the Godards informed. “We want to have a store that the Meaford community is proud to have as a local business and this renovation and investment reflects that ongoing commitment. We look forward to you joining our journey through the renovation.”
Pina and Kevin came to Meaford from Rockwood in June of 2022. They were determined to keep the same small-town community approach to their business that they had come to appreciate in Rockwood. They started their careers in the grocery business at a very young age. Both have had a combination of in-store experience, marketing experience, and experience with both vendors and retailers in the food industry.
With ever rising costs for groceries across the country, the Godards are aware of the struggles many are facing in these challenging times.
“We recognize that the last two years has been harder than ever for families’ grocery bills, and trust us, as a family of five (with a cat and dog) we feel it too! We work hard to bring to life value and service in our store with programs like Hit of The Month, Price Drop, Flash Sales, and Members Only Pricing to name a few,” they told The Independent.
With their second anniversary approaching, a celebration is planned for Saturday, June 22, with in-store specials and a Rotary Club barbeque, with all donations going to the local food bank.
“We have such an amazing and welcoming community here in Meaford, and that sure has made the transition and move smoother for us and our family,” said the Godards. “We believe that the key to a successful franchise is treating your employees well and being active and supportive in the community. We’ve strived to make a difference in both these areas over the last two years and will continue going forward. Whether that be sponsoring local activities, supporting Community Living, the school’s co-op for special needs students or our work with supporting the local food bank while diverting potential food waste.”
