By: Mat Cloak
The Parsons Advocate
Front Street Grocers in Thomas is reopen for business after a change in ownership. Ash Keane, the new owner, is excited to bring specialized shopping, beer release parties, and a community kitchen to the local area.
The shelves at Front Street Grocers are fully stocked. Keane described her method of stocking as “specialized shopping.” “As a small store, I can meet more of a demand,” Keane said. After figuring out the specific items customers want on the shelves, Keane is prepared to acquire such individualized orders.
The store houses rows of dried goods, available in bulk quantities. “These low cost staples – grains, spices – are available in whatever quantity the customer wants,” Keane said. The lack of packaging and the accompanying waste, help make these bulks items more affordable.
Fruit, vegetables, canned goods, and meat also line the shelves. Many of these items are provided by local business, including LaFontaine Bakery, Charm Farm, Possum Tail Farm, Backbone Farm, and Healthberry Farm. Keane also focuses on acquiring international foods that are hard to find.
Front Street will start stocking beer and wine this week. Different batches of specialty beer will be introduced through beer release parties. In addition to beer release parties, there will be a pizza night, and special items on sale. Front Street will also sell tapas and charcuterie.
Inside the shop, off to the left side of the main shopping area, is a dining area and kitchen. This is the community kitchen. “The community kitchen is a space for creative cooking,” Keane said. Any interested parties can use the commercial equipment in the kitchen to prepare food. They can opt to sell ready to eat food at the store or packaged food on their own. The Farm Up food truck will use this kitchen in the winter. Brunch will also be served there.
Keane aspires to use the community kitchen for educational programs as well.
The compact and ornately designed grocer originally opened in October 2016. The previous owner closed in February. By March, negotiations for the ownership to be passed to Keane were underway.
Keane, a Morgantown native, managed Mountain People’s Co-Op for 12 years. “I wanted my own business,” Keane said. “Why am I working for a million other people, when I can do this myself?”
When asked what she wants to accomplish in the community, Keane replied, “I want to provide good food that is accessible.” Her focus is less on the tourism industry and more on the local community.
Front Street Grocer is located at 122 State Highway 32 in Thomas. Their hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.
