Shelburne Fresh Variety: more than a store in our neighbourhood

June 20, 2013 · 0 Comments

Brent and Collette Gray, owners of Shelburne Fresh Variety, epitomize hard work, customer service, family values and old fashioned neighborhood dedication. On a first name basis with many of their customers, both Brent and his wife have spent thirteen years building their business nestled on the corner of Owen Sound St. and Jane St., providing the most beautiful hanging baskets, garden centre, fresh produce and neighborhood store with a friendly, family feel.

Travelling three times a week to the Toronto Terminal, Gray had this to say, “It’s a lot of work. I’m up at 1a.m. and get to the terminal early. I see what I’m getting compared to the restricted choices many chain stores get to choose from. I know that product is getting picked Monday and I’m there to buy it on Tuesday. Working for yourself is not always what it’s cracked up to be. It’s seven days a week, non-stop. We deliver fresh produce to 45 restaurants in the area. Weekends are my favorite because I enjoy being with all the people, the customers, and you have to be a people person in this business. ”

Although there is so much involved when making a business work, it helps to lighten the load working with a spouse who compliments you in every way.

“I told my wife when I married her I could never work with her. Live with her and work with her? It would never work! Boy! Did that ever back fire! Now look, it’s worked out perfectly,” Gray chuckled fondly at the memory.

Collette Gray also thinks working with her husband has worked out fabulously stating, “I enjoy all aspects of the business and especially love the garden centre in the summer. I really enjoy working with my husband.”

Brent Gray’s family have been in the business since 1959 when Gray’s grandfather owned Leaders Clover Farm in Orangeville while, Gray’s father ran the business. Gray himself has been learning about the business since he was eight years old and has seen a lot of changes.

“Thirty years ago the sun was not so extreme. I’ve seen plants do much better in half sun, half shade when before, they thrived in full sun. Now they burn. I really enjoy customer feedback. I like to know how plants do after they leave here,” said Gray.

And it’s that kind of caring and sincerity that keeps people coming back for more. Having such a long history in the business expanding to Orangeville since the late 50’s, some people visit Shelburne making a day of it and they stop by to pick up great fresh product, flowers, and just chat. The human connection, the sincere interaction, devotion and attention to detail are irreplaceable qualities Mr. and Mrs. Gray have down to a fine art and Shelburne is so grateful.

For more information, call Shelburne Fresh Variety at 519-925-3497.

By Alex Sher