Beverage Dynamics is the largest national business magazine devoted exclusively to the needs of off-premise beverage alcohol retailers, from single liquor stores to big box chains, through coverage of the latest trends in wine, beer and spirits.
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/724527
www.beveragedynamics.com September/October 2016 • Beverage Dynamics 15 A business that spans 83 years and four generations is obviously doing something right. For Kreston's Wine & Spirits, everything boils down to one primary goal: providing outstanding customer service at all times. "The most important thing to us has always been customer service, from my grandfather down," says owner Bob Kreston, who manages the Delaware-based retailer's two locations with his son, Jeff. "My grandfather was a fi rm believer in treating the customers properly and making sure they came back again and again. We also go above and beyond what other stores do by offering a better selection and more competitive prices." That business mentality is what has allowed Kreston's to sur- vive and even expand for more than three-quarters of a centu- ry--and it shows no signs of slowing down. ALL IN THE FAMILY Kreston's was originally founded by Bob's grandfather, Samuel Kreston, back in 1933. Then known as Kreston Liquor Mart, the store eventually changed its name and underwent many renova- tions over the years. The original Wilmington location is still in place, having undergone many expansions and now clocking in at approximately 10,000 feet of retail space. A second, 7,000-foot location about 30 miles away in Middleton opened 13 years ago when the Krestons identifi ed an opportunity to break into a new market that lacked the kind of selection they were able to offer. Bob says that the business abides by the same customer service principles that his grandfather implemented in the very beginning. "We're knowledgeable, we always have people out on the fl oor ready and willing to assist customers, we do little things like carry people's packages out to the car," he says. "All of those things make a difference and leave the customer with a very positive impression." With 14 employees and two stores to oversee, the Krestons have a lot of responsibility. Bob used to manage the business with his late father, Don, who passed away nine years ago. Bob struggled to handle most of the work himself until Jeff graduated from college four and a half years ago. Jeff says he always knew that his next step after college would be to help run the family BY MELISSA NIKSIC [ RETAIL PROFILE ] SERVING UP SUCCESS FOR FOUR GENERATIONS PHOTOS COURTESY OF ELLIS PHOTOGRAPHY