For 11 years and running, Main Street in Verrado has been anchored by a neighborhood market with strong ties to its home state of Arizona. Almost two years ago, Dave Ullman, who spent 32 years managing stores for Bashas’ in Sedona and Prescott, returned to his West Valley roots as General Manager of the Main Street store. Ruth Rosenquist sat down with Dave, to find out more about the day-to-day operation of this bustling location.
Ruth: Dave, can you tell us how Bashas’ continues to stand apart in an increasingly competitive marketplace?
Dave: Bashas’ is proud to be the only grocer to serve Verrado. We maintain a people-oriented culture that begins with friendly staff and exceptional customer service. You might also be surprised to know that Bashas’ is the last large grocery chain that bakes its own fresh bread and doughnuts every day from scratch.
Q: Beyond freshly baked bread and doughnuts, what’s the most popular item at the Main Street location?
A: Despite our smaller footprint, our store on Main Street amazingly outperforms the 60 other Bashas’ food stores (including AJ’s Fine Foods and Food City) in pizza sales. We’re number one in the entire chain!
You can buy fresh pizza by the slice or pie, fired in our custom pizza oven. Our biggest seller is pepperoni pizza, at $9.99 to go. And many of our patrons like to enjoy a glass of wine with their pizza. Our high-end wine and liquor categories rank very high in volume.
Q: Could you walk us through your other departments?
A: Right this way! In addition to the Bakery, Bashas’ on Main Street offers Meat and Seafood, a Deli, Produce and Floral departments in addition to the everyday staples. We are very nimble with our space, as our store comprises 16,500 square feet. A typical Bashas’ store can vary between 40,000-60,000 square feet.
Q: How many people do you employ at the Main Street store?
A: We have 40 great employees who collectively make this one of the best stores I’ve ever worked in.
Q: What’s the best part about working on Main Street?
A: Whenever possible, we like to fire up the grill to serve delicious hamburgers and hot dogs. And we are also delighted to partner with the Verrado Assembly on the Founders Day Picnic, Fourth of July and Holiday Tree Lighting, among other events. Whenever the community gathers to celebrate the season, you’ll find us there!
Bashas’ on Main Street Verrado
21064 W. Main Street
Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
623-388-6000