CORNWALL, Ontario – Its been 35 years since Farm Boy was founded here in Cornwall. Founder Jean-Louis Bellemare said that many things have changed, but the store’s commitment to great food, great value and great customer service has not.
It was Dec. 2 1981 when the very first Farm Boy opened. Founded by Cornwall natives Jean-Louis Bellemare and his wife Collette, the first Farm Boy location was in a 300 square-foot site on Cumberland Street.
"The opening day really sticks out in my mind," Jean-Louis told Seaway News. "It was a heat wave in December. It was 75 degrees outside, but I also remember the strong community support we got from everyone. As people came in they were very excited and that has continued these past 35 years. There’s been a tremendous amount of support and loyalty in Cornwall."
Jean-Louis’ father had his own wholesale, fresh produce business in Cornwall and the Bellemare family has continued its dedication to fresh food with Farm Boy.
Farm Boy now has 23 locations and over 3, 000 employees across the province of Ontario, but the big celebration of the store’s 35th birthday will be happening in its hometown of Cornwall on Saturday, Jan. 28 from 10 a/m/ to 4 p.m.
"Cornwall is proud to be the birthplace of Farm Boy," said Mayor Leslie O’Shaughnessy. "We are happy to see the company, which has built its reputation on quality and service, continue to have success as it expands to other Ontario communities."
