Brad Perkins has been managing Clark’s Market of Norwood for the last 10 years. The small town grocery store, located on Grand Avenue in the heart of town, has been “Clark’s” for as long as he’s been there.
Before that, he said the market existed under other names. Do any of you in Norwood remember? Perkins said he thinks the store has been there roughly 25-30 years. Old-timers in the Norwood community will probably better know the history.
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Working as the GM for Clark’s, Perkins manages approximately 30 employees. Together, they keep the local grocery store running efficiently to supply Norwood with its basic food and household needs.
Clark’s Market offers a meat department, a deli for freshly sliced cheeses and meats, a produce section, a variety of beverages and more. Hot foods are prepared and ready for take-out, as are fresh salads. Greeting cards, school supplies, fresh flowers and candy are also in house, as are some medicines, cleaning supplies, automotive items and cooking wares.
Perkins said that since Norwood is such a diverse community, the store has adapted in order to meet the wide array of needs. He said it’s important that Clark’s have something for everyone. Some organic and gluten-free options are available in store. That includes breads, snack items, baking ingredients and produce options.
“We have a lot for a small store here,” he said. “We try to diversify our products for our customers. Us, compared to another rural or country store, we are different in what we carry.”
Clark’s is a longtime member of the Norwood Chamber of Commerce, and Perkins said the store prides itself in supporting Norwood and giving back to the community. Giving back, he said, is a part of Clark’s Market’s mission.
In the past, the grocery store has donated to various Norwood School events, sports programs, the Parent Teacher Association and more. He said the store is happy to help when it can in order to support local organizations.
Recently, the store acquired a new system for its cashiers. Perkins said the new registers and other equipment will be better for everyone. He said the technology will allow employees to do more for the customer and for offering promotions. Now, the staff are implementing the new system.
“It’s good for the store. We just have to figure it out first,” he said.
Clark’s is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Throughout the year, the store stays busy rather steadily, though summertime does see a boost in shoppers. Perkins said in addition to local people that make trips to Clark’s, the many campers headed west, along with seasonal tourists and fall hunters also help support the local grocery.
Holidays, too, seem to pick up a little, he said.
Perkins said it’s a pleasure serving Norwood.
“We love Norwood and thank everyone for their support,” he said. “And we love our locals.”