Austin favorite SuperFresh to close its doors
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(ABC 6 News) – It’s been a local staple for decades and now, Austin’s SuperFresh Produce and Garden Center is closing its doors.
“It’s been 42 years and I’m just ready to be with my wife a little more, do some traveling, and be with the kids and grandkids more,” said owner Jim Stiles.
42 years of memories, and keeping the family business running.
In 1970, Jim’s dad Howard bought the property and originally just sold produce. In the 1980s, Jim started working at the store and SuperFresh began selling plants, and local food.
“Produce like pumpkins, and squash, and apples. That’s what we sort of grew up in. So that’s the part I enjoy a lot.”
It's been a local staple for decades and now, Austin's SuperFresh Produce and Garden Center is closing its doors.
A fan of traveling, Jim brought goods from around the state to Austin.
“After 42, then my dad and grandpa were in the business, we’ve always known a lot of people who sell a lot of produce or make local products.”
SuperFresh was put up for sale a few years ago but nothing happened. This summer, Jim decided to try and sell it again.
“There were a lot of other people over the summer that were very interested in parts of it, or carrying it on. What was really exciting for me was a lot of people who had dreams of maybe owning their own small business and being able to encourage them to follow their dreams.”
There have been a lot of employees over the years. One of them, Brianna Klouse said she’s grateful for the creative freedom she’s had at SuperFresh.
“I have a lot of tasks that I’m allowed to do and I just really love baking. So, I’ve been able to bring in my own recipes to bake here to sell but also do some of the recipes they already had here,” said Klouse.
For Brianna, SuperFresh closing is bittersweet.
“I was kind of like happy for Jim because I know he kind of wants to get out, and travel, and just do his thing. Also, really sad because this place has been a part of Austin for a really long time. I’m hopeful for the new ideas and things that will be coming here.”
“I’d just like to say ‘thank you’ to all of the customers over the years,” added Jim.
Jim said there is a potential buyer but nothing is set in stone. The store will close on Friday, October 21.