It started as a little building built in the 1920’s, and is now the heart of the Canowindra community – our local IGA. Owner Johnny Lawrence and Manager Peter Watt are delighted to celebrate their 35th year of business in the Canowindra community, not to mention 35 years of giving very generously to our little town.
Merve Eweras was one of the first owners in 1978 and named the building ‘Food Town’.
Peter and Johnny worked for Merve, helping with orders and stocking. In the 1980’s Johnny purchased the building and renovated to make more space for a Deli and storeroom.
As the centrepiece of the Canowindra community, IGA participates in many charitable activities, donating to a range of causes and events. Perhaps the most noteworthy donation is the one made through the Community Chest initiative, which has injected over $100,000 back into the community with the help of their current Loyalty Points Program.
“It’s great to see the commitment of the community with the Loyalty Program, with about one third of customers donating their points to the Community Chest which estimates to be $10,000 a year”, Johnny says.
Some of the local businesses, associations and clubs that have received the Community Chest donation include the Uniting Church, Men’s Shed and the Pre-School. This year they donated it to the Canowindra Trotting Club to facilitate the upgrading of the new trotting track.
There are very few of us who don’t enjoy the warm service of our IGA team. A little joke with the ladies and Peter at the checkout, receiving assistance to our cars with groceries and home deliveries. “We are huge believers in providing excellent customer service and also support the local community whenever we can”, Johnny says.