For 18 years, 35-year-old Jason Hawkins has worked in a grocery store. From bagging groceries to shagging carts to stocking shelves, he’s done it all. In 1997, Jason joined Market Basket, starting in the Edwardsville store’s produce department. Then, when the Caseyville store opened 3 ½ years ago, Jason became its manager.

“Market Basket reminds me of the stores I visited when I was a child in Mt. Vernon. It has a hometown feel, and I like to continue that legacy,” says Jason.

Jason hires employees, buys merchandise and is responsible for all aspects of the retail business. The store carries more than 5000 items and every week has more than 100 items on sale.

“We give great attention to all our customers and encourage special requests. We’re known for our meat department, and if a customer wants one 3-inch Porterhouse or 20, we’re up for the challenge,” he says.

Jason wants the store to be a destination not only for local customers but also for those in surrounding communities. “We know many customers by name or by face. It all goes back to that small-town feel. This is their place, their home. They are welcome here,” he says.

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