How Windsor Essex Grocers Are Shaping the Local Food Market: While big superstores and shopping malls have become a part of our daily lives, local grocery stores, butcher shops and family markets offer us a different kind of experience. These are not just places to buy goods, but are the heartbeat of our community. Even during the pandemic, these shops remained open continuously, so that there is no shortage of roti-sabzi in people’s kitchens. They are truly essential for our lives and work to fulfill the needs of the society.
East Windsor: M.R. Meat Market – Synonymous with freshness and trust
Started in the year 2005, M.R. Meat Market has become a name of trust for the Windsor community today. It started in the western part and gradually its three stores were established in the city. Founder Mark Romualdi believes that the reason for his success is his excellent service, friendly staff and fresh products at affordable prices.
Here, he brings in direct goods from major suppliers every day, ensuring customers always get fresh and quality meat and sausages. He has a team of about 130 employees who serve customers in a clean and safe environment.
Romualdi’s contribution is not limited to business, but he is also active in social work. Last year, he donated more than $300,000 worth of food to Windsor Lifeline Outreach.
His specialty is providing sausages and meat made from 150-year-old recipes. He is the largest seller of Wagyu Beef in Southern Ontario. High quality products made under the name “Marco’s Own” are also available, such as Italian sausages, stuffed pork chops, BBQ kebabs and more.
They took every precaution during the pandemic, such as making masks mandatory, sanitizing, providing gloves, and curbside delivery. Their promptness put them ahead of the competition.
Central Windsor: DeMarco’s Fine Foods – A blend of local and international flavors
DeMarco’s Fine Foods was started in 2018 by husband-wife duo Ray (Raimondo) and Felicia DeMarco. This small but extremely popular family store offers fresh fruits and vegetables as well as specialty foods imported from Europe.
Ray and Felicia have combined their retail and restaurant skills to create a unique look for the store. It offers “grab-and-go” food, sweets and products from local farmers and bakeries.
Ray says that shopping here is much faster and easier than at a larger store. Plus, if there’s a seasonal fruit or vegetable available in the area, you’ll find it here.
The store caters to a variety of dietary needs – such as gluten-free products, Keto-friendly items and vegan products – allowing people with different lifestyles to shop for what they need.
Customer safety was a top priority during the pandemic, with curbside pickup, one-way signs throughout the store and frequent cleaning of surfaces all aimed at providing a safe and comfortable customer experience.
West Windsor: Fred’s Farm Fresh – A mix of tradition and diversity
For 43 years, Fred’s Farm Fresh International Market has been a fixture in Windsor and Essex County. Located at 2144 Huron Church Road, the store offers fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, cheeses, ready-to-eat meals and household items.
The store is run by Linda Bozide Jacobs, her father Fred Bozide, and sister Tina Azar. Linda says the fun here is in its variety – whether it’s fruits and vegetables from around the world or meats and cheeses.
With nearly 50 employees, the family believes in connecting with customers and providing great service. Despite the long hours and hard work, they consider it a privilege to have been able to serve the community for so many years.
Fred’s Farm Fresh isn’t just about grocery; it also has a floral department, garden center, and catering services. People love their house-made guacamole. They also offer gift baskets during the holidays and floral arrangements for special occasions.
Safety measures have been strict during the pandemic – regular cleaning, use of masks and gloves, hand-sanitizer stations, and curbside delivery have all helped build customer confidence.
Conclusion: Why choosing local markets is important?
Local markets and family stores are not just places to shop, they are part of our culture, tradition and relationships. When we buy from these stores, we not only get fresh and quality food, but we also strengthen the economy of our community.
Examples like M.R. Meat Market, DeMarco’s Fine Foods and Fred’s Farm Fresh show that with dedication, hard work and genuine loyalty to customers, small businesses can make a big difference.
Today, when we are often exposed to supermarkets and online shopping options, it is even more important to support local stores. These stores offer not just food, but a sense of belonging and trust – something no big brand can provide.
