SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Pride Stores strives to make sure
customers have a pleasant experience, according to the company’s CEO Robert
Bolduc. “I think we just do a good job every day and they appreciate that,” he told
masslive.com, adding, “We try and do a good job every day and it pays off.”
Pride was chosen Best Convenience Store by 2013 Reader Raves
voters, a service of masslive.com that allows readers to pick their favorite
local businesses.
“We have a good mix of products that people want,” Bolduc said.
“That product mix is changing all the time.” That product mix, he noted, is
adding healthier foods to the store selection, such as fresh produce.
“The trend in convenience stores is not for the dirty,
cramped and cluttered counter. It’s not all the junk food and the bad service
where people pay more than would like because they have to shop there.”
The stores offer a deli counter and many have a Subway or a Dunkin’
Donuts franchise. Some Pride Stores also have a grocery store. Founded in 1912
as a livery stable, Pride became a c-store format in 1972. There are 20 Pride
Stores in the greater Springfield area, with plans are underway to remodel
several locations.