TOP 20 RETAILERS
us to turn around orders more quickly, and to deal with the increased volume,” Randall says.“ Today, that delivery and pickup business is still going strong. It’ s not going to replace our in-store experience, but it’ s a very reliable option for customers who find pickup or delivery more convenient.”
Randall’ s is also back in the Bordeaux business. As Randall explains, they took a strong position on the 2016s, and they’ re continuing to expand their offerings both in classified growth and also in more everyday Bordeaux.
“ We have a growing list of wines from the region with 90 + scores and sub- $ 15 price tags that are proving popular with our customers both in-store and online,” Randall says.
In addition to having a team that the Randalls can be proud of, they also enjoy interacting with customers, offering an affordable luxury that brings people joy.
“ I’ m biased of course, but our customers are a fun bunch,” Randall says.“ I think we attract that type of customer with the atmosphere we present. Most customers are already in a positive mood when they walk in. What could be better than that?”
On the supplier side, Randall finds people he can learn from, and he’ s made some great relationships.“ That’ s not to say I’ m not having it out with wholesalers and brand reps on a regular basis,” he admits.“ I have a job to do for my customers, and that means having difficult conversations with my suppliers when I feel customers’ needs aren’ t being met.”
Later this year, Randall’ s will open its fifth store on The Hill— one of the most iconic neighborhoods within St. Louis.
“ It doesn’ t get as much tourism as some other parts of town, but if you’ re from here, you know it,” Randall says“ If you grew up in this city, there’ s a good chance you had one of your most memorable moments at a restaurant on The Hill. It’ s something we’ re very proud to be a part of.”
‘ WE HAVE YOUR SPIRIT’
Buster’ s Liquors & Wines
Memphis, Tennessee
BROTHERS JOSH AND MORGAN HAMMOND, along with their mother Gay Hammond, currently own Buster’ s, which was originally established by R. M“ Buster” Hammond, Sr. in 1954 near downtown Memphis.
According to Josh, Buster’ s was established during the“ heyday” of the Motown music movement, with such famous entities like Stax and Royal Studios located nearby.
Before opening the liquor store, Buster had already earned a great reputation in the neighborhood with his“ gift of gab” while operating HamKirks, a grocery store chain with three locations named after himself and partner, Tom Kirk. At some point, he and Tom agreed to dissolve the partnership, set a price, and flipped a coin for the business. Buster lost and then opened Buster’ s next door.
In 1970 Buster’ s occupied less than 1,600 square feet. Today, the
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