Since 1946, the name Mitchell has been synonymous with groceries, appliances and furniture in Powell River.
On Tuesday, March 21, new owners Mike and Fanny Tam acquired ownership of Mitchell Brothers Merchants from Peter Mitchell, who purchased the business from his father Marino and his uncle Albert in 1981.
The Tams, who moved to Powell River from Richmond in mid-March, are keen to continue offering the same high-quality products, brands and services the store has been known for over 71 years.
“We’re going to keep everything the same,” says Mike. “We want to continue what Peter and his family built.”
The couple also acquired the Home Furniture dealership and will retain all 22 of the Mitchell Brothers employees.
“We will continue with the popular loyalty points program for groceries as well,” says Mike, “and the Aeroplan points program for Home Furniture.”
Mike spent eight years in the grocery business from 1989 to 1997. After gaining experience in front-end customer service and management, he embarked on a career in telecommunications and rapid transit before returning to his roots.
“I’m coming back to where I started; it was pretty much my first job,” says Mike. “I liked it a lot, so when this opportunity came around, I knew it was what I wanted to do.”
This new endeavour is a complete career departure for Fanny. “This is totally new to me, as I have always worked in the banking industry,” she says. “And it’s not just the grocery business, it’s furniture and appliances as well.”
While the business was the initial attraction, the surrounding area was also enticing.
“The business is what brought our attention to Powell River,” says Mike, “but once we arrived we thought, ‘Wow, this really is a beautiful place.’ Especially the drive from the ferries; you can’t beat it.”
Several visits were necessary throughout the sale process, and both Fanny and Mike brought their parents to see the sights. Mike’s brother has also visited.
“Since we arrived, the people have been so nice and welcoming,” says Mike. “That was a huge draw.”
According to Peter, who will stay on for another month to help with the transition, the new owners have been excited about becoming familiar with all aspects of the business and are thrilled with the purchase.
“I’m impressed with the way they are approaching everything, as well as their work ethic and dedication to customers and employees,” says Peter.
Mitchell Brothers continues to operate as a full-service grocery store with a butcher shop, produce department, in-store deli and bakery.
“The produce department offers local produce when available,” says Mike, “and the butcher shop offers many signature products that are sure to impress when entertaining family and friends.”
While appliances were always part of the business, Peter added Home Furniture to the mix in 1997.
“You will find a copy of Home Furniture’s spring savings catalogue in this issue of Peak Weekender, offering a wide selection of today’s most fashionable furniture,” says Mike.
Home Furniture will continue to offer well-known brands such as KitchenAid, Whirlpool and Maytag appliances and the Simmons Beautyrest line of bedding.
Mitchell Brothers’ long history in Powell River began when Albert and Marino went into partnership with Bosa General Store owner Augusto Bosa. The store’s name became Bosa and Mitchell Brothers until the brothers became sole owners in the 1950s.
Peter says he looks forward to people in the community supporting the new owners the same way they supported his family over the years.
“It has been very enjoyable working with Mike and Fanny as they take over,” says Peter. “This has been fun, but it is time for me to retire. I know they are going to do a great job and will carry on the Mitchell Brothers tradition of providing high-quality products and outstanding service.”
Mitchell Brothers is located at 5687 Manson Avenue and business hours are 9 am-6 pm daily, except Fridays, when the store stays open until 9 pm.
For more information:
• 604.483.4011 (Mitchell Brothers)
• 604.483.4949 (Home Furniture)
• mitchellbros.ca
