Michigan-made products boost sales for Ann Arbor-based Busch's Fresh Food Markets
Michigan-made products, more popular than ever, have pushed Busch's Fresh Food Markets into positive sales territory this year despite economic challenges.
The Ann Arbor-based grocery chain with 15 locations in Michigan has always had a close relationship with Michigan produce growers and companies that make everything from salsa to ice cream, said John Busch, the company's CEO.
Those relationships with as many as 300 companies supplying 3,000 Michigan-made products have resulted in double-digit sales increases for those products and a rise in overall sales, he said.
The company has been turning the spotlight on Michigan products this year as part of its 35th anniversary.
Busch's top five Michigan-made sellers are sweet corn from Carleton, blueberries from South Haven, potatoes from Manchester, Bell's Beer from Kalamazoo and Dearborn Sausage franks.
Highlighting the homegrown products is one way that Busch's has made it through the recession. It also has lowered prices and hosts a number of events from cooking lessons to pet adoptions to bring people into the stores.
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Comments
Suki
Mon, Aug 2, 2010 : 2:13 p.m.
I drive past Kroger's to go to Busch's. The employees appear to be very well-trained, the customer service is great, and I like supportng local businesses. On Saturday they had some of the Michigan businesses handing out their food at the store -- lots of fresh veggies and other good food. What a treat!
David Rhoads
Mon, Aug 2, 2010 : 10:15 a.m.
Thank you for doing what you are able, to support local suppliers. I used to be able to buy Ed's Bread at Buschs but have not seen it for awhile. I wonder why, because they are still baking that great bread from their Saline location.
Carole
Mon, Aug 2, 2010 : 7:59 a.m.
Hooray and good for you folks at Buschs. Buying locally definitely will help to bring Michigan. I have not shopped at your store but will definitely be checking it out for future purchases. Again, thanks for supporting the Michigan businesses and even more so if you are supporting USA made goods.