Monte Vista Shop Rite is not just another retail store; it is a discount specialty store that provides what the community wants and needs with unique products and services. With over 35 years of experience in retail, Anita Wazny, owner, said “I know that without customers there is no business. We are customer and market driven and will do what is necessary to maintain a good and healthy relationship with our clientele and will strive to find the right inventory to keep them happy.” She feels fortunate to have employed Erica Medina, who was manager of the former business at this location, and has been a tremendous help in getting the new store up and running. They share a vision to have the store be more like a trading post, catering to local needs. To fulfill this purpose, they have placed a suggestion board by the front door and ask customers for input on items they would like to see on the shelves. They offer free coffee and doughnuts daily to show appreciation for their customers.
The store carries new and unique items as well as much of your daily need items. Among the new products you will find in the store are Italian charms with which you can create a one-of-a-kind bracelet, watchband or keychain. The store is an outlet for fresh baked goods, jams & jellies from the Miller Family Bakery. There is also a consignment area for local craft items that now showcases “cut & curl” candles made by local artisan Bill Mathias. The parking lot has market space for vendors available for a minimal fee.
Anita currently lives in Albuquerque, but was born and raised in Montrose, Pueblo and Denver. She really likes being her own boss and has long wanted to move back to a small town in this state. When she saw this building was at auction, it seemed like the perfect fit for her. Anita contacted the Monte Vista Chamber for information, then followed with contacts with Dick Davidson of the SLV Development Resources Group and Donna Wehe at the Small Business Development Center for information and resources.
Donna and Deanne Elliott, SBDC Counselor for Rio Grande County, helped Anita to refine her business plan in preparation for a loan application, as well as shared marketing and merchandising information relating to our area. The SBDC offers free and confidential business assistance, runs low cost workshops and facilitates the Leading Edge Program. To contact the SBDC, call 719-587-5151 or go to www.coloradosbdc.org.
Anita feels it is important to be a contributing member of the community, so has enrolled Shop Rite as a member of the Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce. The new business, located at 1935 Grande Avenue, is in a convenient location to the residents of the east side of Monte, but is worth the trip for everyone else. They look forward to seeing you soon for their Grand Opening.
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