Smithton’s new market will be a ‘grocery store on steroids.’ See what’s coming
Christy and Hubert “J.R.” Koerber have worked a combined 56 years in the food industry.
They previously owned their multiple food service businesses and stepped away from that for a time. They then worked for other companies in the same industry.
Eventually, the pair decided to run their own business again.
They started with location. Many sites they looked at “didn’t fit” what they envisioned, and they wanted to “fit Smithton’s needs,” said J.R.
The land at 620 N. Main St. in Smithton has been there forever, according to Christy, making it a prime location for a little country market.
But this little market is going to be so much more.
Think of Smithton Kountry Market as a “grocery store on steroids” or a hybrid store, said J.R.
Having five daughters (ages 8-27) of their own, they know how busy life can get and that people’s time is precious. They want to provide the community with a one-stop shop.
The Koerbers asked the community via Facebook what they wanted to see included at the store.
They know they “can’t be everything to everybody” but are going to accommodate as many as possible, according to Christy.
“Quality and service is going out the door” with too many businesses, said J.R.
The Koerbers want to bring that back.
What’s in (the) store
Upon entering, customers will see a full kitchen on the right. The counter will be lined with about 14 barstools. (The Koerbers had the local regulars in mind for this feature.)
Order up some country home-cooked foods, barbecue, fish, family-style dinners. Or just enjoy a nice, cold beer.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served. Menu items will be tailored to what the community wants and needs.
Customers can place pre-orders or call ahead and pick up orders at the market’s drive-thru window.
A hot food case will be available for items like chicken and other pre-prepped meals.
The market’s bakery will have two big display cases full of desserts, which will include gluten-free and keto-friendly options.
There will be a full coffee bar with a variety of coffee drinks and two big ice cream cases with hand-scooped ice cream.
The Koerbers’ youngest daughter, Kennedy, will have her own candy shop inside the store.
There are shelves for groceries, freezer aisles, a deli (walk up and order from the butcher) and a few self-serve cases of meats. All meats will be of choice or better quality.
There are also coolers for the dairy, beer and produce sections. The Koerbers are working with area farmers to get local produce for the store.
Bonus features
The north side of the building will have a spacious patio/all-season room. The space will be screened in and have three big-screen TVs along the wall.
A gaming room will exist off the porch/patio.
In the space off the patio/porch area, Christy said she wants to do a little farmers market or use the space for picnic table overflow.
The market will have its own customer service center.
An Amazon locker will be available for public use.
Basic camping/outdoor supplies (charcoal, propane … beer) will be available for purchase.
Part of their reason for this entire endeavor is to help people in their busy lives.
They are excited to see it all come together and hope to draw people from the surrounding towns.
Nearly ready
The Koerbers are currently finishing up construction and organization. Food orders start to arrive mid-September.
New employees are still being hired. Training starts the last week in September, said Christy.
Anyone interested in applying for a position, particularly for skilled/experienced kitchen help, can email a résumé to ckoerber@yahoo.com.
The Koerbers are pushing for a Saturday, Oct. 1, opening, and everything is “right on track,” according to Christy.
There’s already been a lot of good feedback from the community. The couple thinks they’ll do well.
And Smithton’s in good hands as far as quality.
“Quality is everything,” said J.R. “I think this could be great for the community.”
Smithton Kountry Market is located at 620 N. Main St., Smithton.
Hours for the drive-thru will be 4:30 a.m to 9 p.m. daily. Store hours will be 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
For more info, visit smithtonkountrymarket.com or check out the Facebook page.
This story was originally published September 13, 2022 at 7:00 AM.
