The News-Press:
Locally owned specialty and ethnic grocery stores are holding their own in Southwest Florida, even as larger supermarket chains have opened new stores in recent years.
Some grocers have found their niche and stay true to their original business model. Others have found the wherewithal to expand despite the economic downturn.
“Quality is our key,†said Vincent Pica, a co-owner of Mario’s Meat Market and Deli. “Everything we do, we go after quality first.â€
The deli appeals to Southwest Florida residents with its old-world traditional goods and recipes that call back to Italy, and flavors and tastes that make you think of your grandmother’s favorite dishes, he said.