We are all in the middle of practicing physical distancing, and while this time is very challenging for everyone right now, it is especially difficult for small businesses. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and we need to support them however we can, so every week we will be featuring some of our local small businesses.
Jack’s Drive In is the second business we are featuring in our Small Business Sunday series. Jack’s has been an icon in Spruce Grove since 1961. From the burgers to the soft serve ice cream, Jack’s continues to be a family favourite for all generations.
What is Unique About Jack’s Drive In?
Jack’s Drive In is a unique business in that it is one of, if not, the very oldest business to be continuously run under the same name at the same location out of the same building in Alberta. Mandy used to come to Jack’s Drive In as a child and always loved the place. It was always a childhood dream of hers to run Jack’s, which is now reality.
What is Your Favourite Small Business (aside from your own)?
There are a lot of great small businesses surrounding us that we frequent. Gifts and Gadgets is just down the street, Grove City Meats, Creative Color, Wilhauk Beef Jerky, Perk’s Coffee House are all businesses we trust and use personally and in our business.
If You Had One Piece of Advice to Someone Just Starting Out, What Would It Be?
Be prepared to put in the hours and make some sacrifices for the first few years.
What are Your Long-Term Business Goals?
We feel somewhat like the curators of Jack’s, as well as the owners. It’s a special place for so many people that the challenge is to keep that original, authentic feel while still keeping up with things like delivery apps, and other important parts of a modern food service business. In a strange way, our future goal and challenge is to keep Jack’s the same place people know and love.
What is Your Funniest/Weirdest/Most Memorable Experience With a Customer or Client?
The jukebox that Jack’s has is something we have added in the 12 years we have owned it. All the former owners said there was never a jukebox at Jack’s , only a painting of one on the wall at one point. Still, many people come in with vivid memories of playing the jukebox at Jack’s from decades past. Memories can be funny things.
Thank you to Steve for participating in Small Business Sunday!
