The 50th anniversary of locally-based L&M Food Markets was recognized at the 53rd annual Canadian Independent Grocery Store of the Year awards ceremony on Sept. 29. The local company was one of three recognized for longevity.
“These grocers have achieved a remarkable longevity by adapting to changing times, innovating and focussing on their customers’ needs,” states a press release from the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers (CFIG).
L&M Food Markets originated in 1965. Merlen Kropf and Leon Bursynski had purchased the former Steinbergs store in Fergus.
The purchase was financed by a $15,000 no-interest loan from Steinbergs. Kropf said that when the loan came due they weren’t able to pay it off, and wrote Steinbergs to let them know. They never responded, but business picked up, and L&M was eventually able to repay the loan.
In fact, business improved to the point that, in 1968, the company was able to expand to Arthur and Elora.
In 1970 Kropf bought out Bursynski, but kept the L&M name, and by 1974, the company had opened three stores (two “shopettes” and one full grocery store) in Mount Forest.
Over the next decade L&M expanded into five more markets, and built a new 25,000 square foot flagship store in Fergus.
L&M has been part of CFIG for many years. The family-oriented stores have won them a bronze Grocer of the Year award, an Arnold Rands Heritage Award, and Master Merchandiser Award. Kropf is a life member of CFIG.
Today, L&M remains a family business. Merlen’s son Dale owns five L&M stores, and is daughter Debra Ramage owns Drayton Food Market.
Merlen Kropf still owns the Dundalk Foodland store, and can be found in the Elora L&M office every day. His wife of 55 years, Doreen, is secretary/treasurer of the company.
