More than a convenience store

Brothers Market carves niche with locally sourced products
By: 
David Wilhelms
Correspondent

SHAWANO — While Jeff White has been satisfied on how business grew at Brothers Market, N5860 Foesch Road in the town of Wescott, over the summer after its July opening, he acknowledged that it has been “a little slow between the end of grilling season and ice fishing when the ice gets thick enough.”

He said the store, now heading into its second summer, is positioned to be more than a convenience store, although it does offer the items that vacationers and cottagers frequently forget like bug spray and batteries. There is also a line of beer, wine and liquor.

“Once the word gets around, we’ll be more successful,” White said, adding that he hoped residents, especially on Shawano Lake’s north shore will make the market a regular stop.

Although White sees the business as a seasonal one, the market will be open through the winter and continue to emphasize local sourcing.

“I’m trying to keep it as local as I can with most items,” he said.

He pointed to premium meats, including the 1855 BEEF designation, provided by the Meat Block, Greenville, as one example.

Other local suppliers include DuPont Cheese with fresh cheese curds every Thursday and Friday, maple syrup and products from Yeager’s Sugar Shack, Legend Larry’s sauces, and Old Glory Candy fudge. Souvenir T-shirts and similar items come from a Shawano supplier.

White noted smoked salmon from Silver Moon Springs in Elton, Wisconsin, has been popular lately.

Hand-dipped ice cream from Cedar Crest is currently on hiatus, White noted. He predicted the confection will be available again in February “when people get the itch for ice cream.”

The store is open Monday through Friday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.