M&M Food Market Celebrates 40 Years in St. Thomas by Peri Hayes Mother-daughter duo, Kristen Baker and Cheryl Martin, are the dedicated co-owners of M&M Food Market in St. Thomas. Kristen charismatically introduces, “Forty years ago, Mom (Cheryl) was a teacher and a mother raising three children. Looking for a career change that would allow her to support her family, she decided to take a chance and open an M&M Food Market. I spent years working in the store and learning every part of the business before eventually joining my mom as a co- owner 15 years ago.” The pair reflect: “The products, technology, and day-to-day operations have come a long way from those early days of weigh- ing and sealing packages by hand -- but, some things have never changed: the importance of our customers, our employees, and the relationships we have built within our community.” “So, for me,” Kristen continues, “becoming an owner wasn’t something I suddenly decided to do -- it was something I grew into. When I think about my role today, I don’t just think of myself as an owner. I feel like I am helping carry forward something my mom started.” Over the years, the local M&M team has watched their students grow up and now their children are on board. Kristen beams about how significantly their employees create a positive experience for their valued customers. In expressing her gratitude, she voices, “When we celebrate 40 years, we’re really celebrating the people who have been part of the journey -- their loyalty, friendship and support mean more to us than we could ever put into words.”
Once located on Elm Street for 31 years, M&M Food Market moved nine years ago to their current location on Wellington. Fulfilled by their sense of connection and community roots, Kristen cheers, “I’m incredibly proud of our staff. We currently have 16 employees, and our team has always been such an important part of what makes our store special. My daughter, Kali, has also worked at the store since she was 14 years old, growing up around the same business that has been such a big part of her mom and grandmother’s life.” M&M Food Market has been reviewing its portfolio and seeking ways to improve products, which includes reducing sodium, as well as removing artificial flavours and artificial food colouring from all products: “I think that’s exciting because it shows that we can continue to evolve, while maintaining the convenience, quality, and great taste that customers expect.
FOOD MUSIC Live LIGHTS a holiday pop-up experience in downtown St. Thomas 5 PM - 8 PM NOV 13 tree lighting | wagon rides festive window displays
Start the season bright with a bit of downtown holiday magic. late-night shopping SANTA...and More!
lightuptalbot.ca
Page 8 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@VillagerPublications.com
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs