Junction Fair is proud to be home to retailers who bring heart, innovation, and community spirit to the local area. Our “We are Junction Fair” series is a little shout out we’ve put together to those we feel are shining examples.
Follow along on our social media channels as we share their stories over the coming months.
We recently chatted with Ron, business owner and butcher at Greenacres Gourmet Meats. Here’s what he had to say…
Tell us about your journey to create Greenacres Gourmet Meats at Junction Fair?
I have been part of the Junction Fair community for a long time!
It all started when I managed a butcher shop here for 9 years. When that business closed, I wanted to take over the business, but Centre Management at that time decided to take another offer. Undeterred, I set up a successful shop elsewhere. Three years later I remember expressing to my wife how much I enjoyed my time at The Junction and said I’d still really like to open a butchers at Junction Fair. This encouraged me to approach the new management team which lead to me taking over the lease! Greenacres Gourmet Meats was born, and I was beyond excited. We slowly started introducing customers to all of the best cuts of meat with free range pork and chicken, as well as grassfed beef.
What made you choose Junction Fair as the home of your business?
The people – I love this town! Truly, everyone is so friendly. It’s like a big country town even though we are growing. I remember working in the shop after we had opened and my old customers would walk past and say “Ronnie, is that you?” I was so excited to be back amongst familiar faces.
What’s a challenge you’ve faced at Greenacres Gourmet Meats, and how did you overcome it?
The increasing prices of meat are an ongoing battle. Despite this, I continue to provide value for money to customers by having my own farm.
What’s your favourite moment in a typical day at Greenacres Gourmet Meats?
My customers really are great and when they bring their kids in for a visit, it makes my day. There are quite a few regulars, we have a chat, play a game and sometimes I surprise them with a little gift, especially if I hear it’s their birthday.
What are you most excited about as Greenacres Gourmet Meats continues to grow?
Over the years I have enjoyed building the business up, creating a legacy for my family. My son Braiden joined as an apprentice butcher some time ago and it’s been a delight to watch him become fully qualified. As we look forward to the future I’m really excited to see him be more involved in the business and one day take over the legacy.
Is there anything new or exciting coming up that you’d love to share with the Junction Fair community?
We’ve been listening to our customers, many of whom are busy but want to feed their families quality home cooked meals so we are expanding our homemade meals range. We’ve added pulled brisket pies and lasagnes with everything being made onsite. They are proving to be a hit with customers, so we look forward adding to the range.