More than five years after the previous one burnt down, a new Northern store opened in Brochet on Oct. 17.
The store had been operating from a temporary location in the community hall since the old store was destroyed by fire in April 2017. The temporary store began operations just two days after the fire.
“We want to thank the chief, mayor and people of Barren Lands First Nation and Brochet for their patience and support during our rebuilding process and for allowing us to operate from the community hall during that time,” said Mike Beaulieu, vice-president of Canadian retail operations for Northern store owner the North West Company. “We also want to recognize our store manager Stephen Braun and long-time team members Clifford Umpherville, Norma Halkett, Doreen Cook, Karissa Braun, Sarazine Merasty and Sterling Cook for their commitment to serve their customers despite reduced space and resources over the past five years.”
The grand opening of the new store began with a prayer by Sandra Umpherville and a ribbon-cutting featuring Barren Lands Chief Michael Sewap and Brochet Mayor Norma Cook, along with their respective councils.
“When the store burned down, it was impressive to see how fast everything came together to have the temporary store open within two days,” said Sewap. “And while it served its purpose, it’s going to be a big change going to a store that is new, big and bright – you can see the impact as soon as you walk in.”
The new store is 6,000 square feet and has a larger food and general merchandise selection as well as a Fun2Go section with coffee, deli sandwiches and ready-to-eat fruit, veggies and other snacks. Northern also offers We Financial, Canada Post and fuel services at the new store.
“There’s so much space as you come in the store — everything is fresh and new, the layout is amazing,” said Cook. “The new products and services are just what the community needs, with fresh-cut produce and sandwiches, outdoor products; it all feels welcoming when you walk into the store. The staff have worked hard over the last few years and they look so happy in the new building.”
In addition to free cake and coffee and giveaways, the opening was also marked by the donation of $1,000 to Emily Sheety of the Brochet School breakfast club.
