SHELL LAKE — Al Krmpotich, owner of Al’s Market, the grocery store in Shell Lake, has announced he’ll be closing, likely by the end of the month. The move is a business decision, according to Krmpotich, a resident of Gordon.
“We’ve been in Shell Lake for eight years and one month, but now it’s time to go,” Krmpotich said. “I’ve been involved in some part of the grocery business all my life. I started by bagging groceries in Superior when I was 18 years old. I also worked in a wholesale food warehouse and as a bread sales representative after that.”
Krmpotich had been working in a Minong grocery store in 2015 when he learned Gordy’s Market, a well-known Wisconsin family-owned grocery chain, was selling its Shell Lake store.
“Gordy’s was having some issues and I saw an opportunity to buy the business — but not the building and lots — at a reasonable price. By 2017, I was in Shell Lake. I knew Shell Lake was a really nice town; that made the decision easy,” he said.
Krompotich didn’t credit any particular reason for the decision to sell.
“There’s been a downturn in business, basically due to competition from bigger grocery stores. I’m not blaming any one in particular; it’s not just happening in Shell Lake, it’s an issue everywhere,” he said.
When asked about his plans now, Krompotich said, “I’m putting my resume out there and am open to traveling a ways. There are likely opportunities in the Duluth-Superior area, or maybe one of the other communities in the area.”
He added his appreciation for the years he spent here.
“I’ve enjoyed working in the Shell Lake community and want to thank all the customers I’ve had over the years,” concluded Krompotich.
Dining and Cooking