Berry Hill’s Evolution to St. Thomas’ Top Gift Shop Berry Hill Ltd. has been a cornerstone of St. Thomas for decades, and its recent recognition as St. Thomas’ Favourite Gift Shop in our recent Readers Choice poll only underscores its beloved status. Ken and Cathy Fox have been at the helm of Berry Hill since 1991, continuing a legacy that began in 1946 when Jack Berry and Jack Hill opened a distributorship for the Buckeye incubator company. “We moved back from Thornhill to take over the business from Cork Foster, who had decided to retire,” Ken explained. “It’s been an incredible journey since then.” Berry Hill is renowned for its eclectic mix of products, ranging from giftware and home décor to wild birding supplies, women’s fashion, and garden tools. However, its origins lie in the farming industry. “Originally, the company sold large poultry incubators and equipment,” Ken said. “In the early 1970s, Cork transitioned the company to a mail-order business for hobby farmers. Since Cathy and I took over, we’ve expanded our presence in the community and become a staple for various lifestyles. Our product range is wide, eclectic, interesting, functional, practical, fun, and always expanding,” Ken noted proudly. One surprising aspect of Berry Hill is its robust online presence. “Our first website was launched in 1997,” Ken shared, recounting their online journey. “It was basic and informative, but since then, we’ve rebuilt it four times, always striving to improve. When COVID struck in 2020, we were unknowingly prepared. Our online business boomed, and it continues to grow. Many local customers are surprised when they discover the extensive product lines we sell online across Canada and the U.S.”
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Ken’s passion for the business is evident. “My favourite thing about my work is the constant change and bringing those changes to our customers. We’re always finding new items and new suppliers,” he said. “I love that many of our customers are generational. Their parents and grandparents were customers, and now they are.” Being selected as St. Thomas’ Favourite Gift Store is a signifi- cant achievement for Berry Hill. “It’s an exciting accom- plishment,” Ken remarked. “We were first in someone’s mind, and that’s special.” Ken expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported Berry Hill over the years. “I’d like to thank our staff, both past and present. Without them, nothing is possible. And of course, the community of St. Thomas and our customers across the country for their support over my past 33 years and the years previous.” Located at 75 Burwell Dr., St. Thomas, Berry Hill continues to thrive, evolving with the times while staying deeply rooted in the community. Get involved! Like us on Facebook! SAUSAGE BACON DELUXE 1063 TALBOT STREET, ST. THOMAS ©2024 Quality Is Our Recipe, LLC OPEN 23 HRS SAUSAGE BACON DELUXE NEW BREAKFAST HOURS ONLY
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Thank you for voting for us
Your Dad deserves a gift from St. Thomas’ Favourite Gift Store!
For Home, Garden, Gift-Giving & FATHER’S DAY! Since 1946
519-631-0480 75 burwell rd., st. thomas www.berryhill.ca
Page 22 Hometown St. Thomas • June 2024
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