Local products are the focus

St. Vital

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This article was published 29/05/2024 (541 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Wendy and Ken Loney are continuing to expand their customer base but have already developed a loyal clientele since they opened Local Meats & Frozen Treats in 2017 at 593 B St. Anne’s Rd.

The shop is tucked into a small strip mall on the east side of St. Anne’s Road near a series of apartment complexes and within walking distance of Abinojii Mikanah. The couple initially established their business on St. Mary’s Road in 2009.

“There’s lots of customer parking and a dedicated loading zone. We’re very happy with the location and our great co-tenants,” Ken said.

The couple previously owned and operated K&W TV Service for 30 years, servicing TVs, VCRs and other electronics. As home electronics evolved it became impossible to stay in business, Ken said. He briefly considered leaving his longtime entrepreneurial role for a secure position in the health-care industry, but realized he wanted to keep serving the public and being his own boss.

“He’s a people person,” Wendy said. “He loves meeting people.”

A clue to the main focus of Local Meats & Frozen Treats is in its name – local.

“Ninety per cent of our sales are from Manitoba suppliers,” Ken said. “All these local suppliers are making their food for their own families and friends.”

A few of these include Crampton’s Manitoba Maid Jams from Starbuck, dairy products from Notre Dame Creamery, Wild Man Ricing from The Pas, and All Natural Meats from Carman. The frozen meat selection features lamb, pork, beef, bison, elk, chicken and turkey along with fish, seafood and sausages. Meat and fruit pies, perogies, cabbage rolls, spring rolls, frozen cookie dough and many other foods fill 15 freezers. Refrigerators hold specialty drinks, milk, butter, cheese and eggs. Shelfs are stocked with pasta, oats, beans, sauces, mustards, honey, jams and maple syrup.

Baked goods, such as bread, buns, cookies, squares, muffins and cheesecakes are delivered from Boulangerie St. Pierre Bakery every Tuesday and Friday. Customers are encouraged to pre-order special items two days ahead.

The Loneys invite new customers to contact them via email at kwtv@shaw.ca and request a full list of their products. Orders can be placed by email or phone then picked up at the customer’s convenience.

Upon customer request, they’ll even set aside a frozen dinner ingredient and have it thawed and ready for the person to get on their way home from work.

The Loneys aim to please their customers and offer personalized service, helping people find what they’re looking for and offering information on other products.

Ken said customer buying patterns change with the season. “Summer months are geared towards barbecue products. In winter, we sell more roasts and whole chickens, as well as seasonal products over Christmas.”

The Loneys recently ran a children’s colouring contest to celebrate their seventh anniversary. “We have a lot of local families that do bring their children in while they shop, and we do have a few toys/books to try and keep them occupied while mom or dad shops.”

The Loneys are willing to make room in their shop for any new products that they feel might interest their customers.

“We are always looking for new Manitoba products,” Ken said.

Asked about any future plans, Ken joked, “Possibly retiring by 80 or so, health permitting.”