At last count, not including the proposed Harris Teeter going up in Easton later this year, there are seven national food store chains that compete with Graul’s Market in St. Michaels for food shoppers. And those are just a few of the challenges for the last remaining family-owned food store in Talbot County.
But as John Evans, owner of Graul’s and the grandson of the original grocer, Harold Graul, notes in his interview with the Spy, every store does something great. And in the case of Graul’s, what they do better than anyone in the region is knowing what their customers wants.
Along with discussing the history of the St. Michaels store, and his and his wife Paige’s decision to take it over eleven years ago, John talks candidly about competition and his efforts to preserve not only a family business but a retail buying experience that increasingly is growing more rare every day.
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Joan Murray says
I will always shop at Graul’s, no matter which new food chain comes to Easton. I walk into Graul’s and before I have gotten to the bakery counter, one of the wonderful women behind the counter (usually Sam) has my two blueberry scones waiting for me.
This kind of service has made me a very loyal customer.
Marguerite Whilden says
Grauls markets are considered to be very much a part of my heritage. I literally grew up with Graul’s in Annapolis and was delighted to find one in St. Michael’s. On one occasion at the Cape St.Claire location, after all groceries were in the bag, my husband realized he had forgotten his wallet. From his office perch the manager over heard the situation and told him “No worries, just bring in the payment tomorrow.” Where else does that happen? In the Annapolis/St. Margaret’s area Grauls is also well known for land donations and charitable policies.
In my experience Grauls has always been devoted to customer service, fulfilling special requests, and providing an abundant selection. (I love the new expanded milk options with goat milk and glass bottles! ) I especially appreciate John Evan’s management style and commitment to sustainable practices and local vendors. When I approached Graul’s St. Michael’s to add my home style eggs to their already wide selection of egg products the managers were immediately enthusiastic and have been very supportive since then. It is an honor for me to be associated with such a venerable institution and a privilege to have Grauls nearby on both sides of the bay.