In Alexandria, Minnesota, Elden's Fresh Foods has been an independent, family-owned grocer for more than three decades. The familiar phrase, "See you at Elden's," has stuck over the store's 33 years in business as friends and neighbors come to shop where they engage in conversation and catch up with familiar faces. At 50,000 square feet, Elden's offers a widespread selection with a large emphasis on perishable items — produce, bakery, deli, meat and dairy departments all shine — as well as a full-service floral department with five florists on staff.
Whether it's a contribution to the construction of a new high school, the area YMCA or a local youth sports league, Elden's doesn't hesitate to pay it forward. As the only locally-owned, independent supermarket in town, surrounded by big-box, corporate stores, Elden's stands out for folks looking to buy and support local business. "Our store's theme is, 'live and love local in Alexandria,'" says Elliot.
Today, Elden's remains family owned. Elliot's son, JR Christensen, is the store director. Due to very seasonal-type business, the store employs 125 year-round employees and up to 200 in the busy summer months.
Elden's has upward of 30,000 items, so selection is not a concern. "We have a large natural and organics section and a gluten-free section of the store," shares Elliot.
The company's floral department, known as Elden's Downtown Floral, provides flower and gift delivery to Alexandria, Osakis, Carols, Brandon, Miltona and Nelson, Minnesota. Customers can order online, 24 hours a day and have an arrangement ready for pickup or delivery usually the next business day.
For Elden's, it's all about going that extra step for the customer, "Because we care," says Elliot. This attitude and commitment has won the store a spot as the Minnesota Grocer of the Year and other accolades.
Elden's commitment to reinvesting locally has paid back in countless ways. "We're more than a grocery store — we're a community destination," says Elliot. Under this mantra, Elden's Fresh Foods builds on 33 years in business with 19 of those years serving Alexandria and surrounding communities with freshly prepared products, wide selection and most of all, a friendly face.