Thrifty Foods
Organic Products in Courtenay

Entering the grocery industry in 1956 as a young student, Alex A. Campbell worked his way up to become District Manager for Shop Easy stores in Vancouver. Having forged relationships with local suppliers such as Island Farms Dairies Co-Op; and with a clear commitment to top-quality products, competitive pricing and outstanding customer service, Thrifty Foods has evolved into a thriving chain of 20 stores that currently enjoys over 40 per cent market share in Victoria and 25 per cent market share on Vancouver Island overall. That year the company opened its ninth store, in Victoria's Broadmead neighbourhood, and the same time introduced its first organic food section. In 1991 Alex Campbell and Ernie Skinner parted amicably with Mr. Campbell assuming the role of President. In 1977, located in Victoria's Fairfield community.Early growth came in part through franchising, he acquired the space vacated by a closing Safeway outlet to open the first Thrifty Foods store, in conjunction with friend and business colleague Ernie Skinner, the first opening in 1983. In 1973 he moved to Vancouver Island to open the 49th Parallel Grocery in Ladysmith. It is clearly understood that Thrifty Foods' success is due, in significant part, to the company's unstinting support of charitable causes and its high level of community involvement both locally and regionally.