From the left: Sherry and daughter Kayla are pictured in the store which provides clients with a variety of goods and services. Thompson Goddard Photo

WILLIAMSBURG – Sherry’s Inc., located at 4304 County Road 31 in Williamsburg is a one stop destination for those looking to purchase gas, baked goods, or a wide selection of groceries. In November 2015, Sherry Mowat opened the retail operation after operating a similar store in Heckston near Kemptville.  When walking into Sherry’s, clients are greeted by friendly staff that are eager to assist as needed.  Mowat’s daughter Kayla Helliker described the business as an old school general store, which offers shoppers with the opportunity to purchase gas, groceries, a wide selection of baked goods, meals to go, as well as being a liquor convenience outlet selling beer and liquor.

The day begins early at the store, with Helliker explaining prior to opening its doors at 5:30 a.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. the weekend, staff are on-site baking bread, followed by making the meals, sandwiches and desserts throughout the day. She continued how all goods are baked on premises, and the business strives to ensure delivery of their products in a consistent manner with quality assurance and customer service a top priority. The days are long with the store closing daily at 9 p.m., but there is a sense of satisfaction felt when the day is done.

Mowat mentioned interactions with customers and working with staff are two aspects of the business she enjoys the most.  She noted there are government regulations and rules which an owner must stay current with to ensure compliance with them. There are always challenges to be faced and overcome, with Helliker explaining one such challenge was parking at the store, which was resolved by expanding and improving the on-site parking lot.

When asked about providing advice to people considering a career in retail, Mowat responded by mentioning it is important to have a vision for the business and to stick with it. She advised those looking at a career like this to persevere through challenges which may arise. Helliker commented she would recommend this type of business, mentioning there are a good variety of things to do throughout the day, which include the opportunity to interact with members of the community.

“It’s all about the community” said Mowat, describing the store as a community hub and both women agreeing it is important for local businesses to support activities in the local area. It was noted how there are a lot of regular customers, with Mowat mentioning during tourist season they have a lot of out-of-area clients dropping in.

More information can be found on their Facebook page or website located at www.sherrysinc.com.

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