NFIB

Alabama Grocer Prefers the Personal Touch
05/23/2002

These days, customers at big grocery chains can scan and pay for their groceries without ever speaking to another person. However, John Wilson of Super Foods Supermarkets in Luverne, Ala., prefers to do business the old-fashioned way.

Wilson, who also currently serves as District Governor for Rotary International, says that the small, family-like atmosphere in his two grocery stores is key to fighting the larger chains and giant retailers like Wal-Mart.

"After all these years, we still offer full service. We unload your shopping cart, check it out, bag it, then take it to the car for you," he says. "Some of our employees have been with us for 31 years now and that shows in the pride they take in their work and the way they treat our customers. These are things the big guys just can't offer."

Super Foods has been in Wilson's family since it opened for business in 1971. After stocking shelves and bagging groceries during his teen years, Wilson left to attend Samford University in Birmingham. He returned after college and has been growing the business ever since.

"NFIB understands what it's like to operate independently. They use their power on Capitol Hill to ensure that the independent businessperson doesn't have to live by the same rules as big business," he says. "I truly believe that they are making a difference."

Quick Facts:
Name: Big Bear of Luverne, Inc., however we do business as Super Foods Supermarkets

Locations: Luverne and Greenville, Ala.
Founded: June 1971
Number of employees: 121

Is this a family business?
Yes. My mother and father are still active in the business.

Why did you join NFIB?
We joined NFIB because they stand up for the independent businessperson -- who, unlike the big corporations, doesn't always have the power to stand up and make their voice heard. We are not a big chain, but rather a small independent retail operation with two stores -- and we are proud to be independent!

What have you done through NFIB to help the cause of small business?
I have been active in supporting pro-small business candidates in local and state elections, and I have contributed to NFIB's SAFE (Save America's Free Enterprise) Trust. My family has been vocal spokespersons for the cause of the independent businessperson. I work with NFIB's Alabama Leadership Council to rally support for small business issues and help our elected officials understand the plight small business is facing. I strongly believe that NFIB makes a difference in the political arena -- in the state of Alabama, as well as this great country in which we live.

What are your top legislative concerns?
On the state level, we have a major problem with all types of insurance, including workers' compensation and affordable health insurance. On the federal level, we need to do away with the death tax on a permanent basis.

Why do you like being a small business owner?
I like having the flexibility to be a family. We have people that have worked with us since we opened our doors 31 years ago. These people aren't just employees of the company, but members of our company family. You just don't find this type of atmosphere in larger companies.

I also appreciate having the opportunity to give back to our communities, in the same manner as they have helped to support us over these past years.