| Food Ranch has been serving customers in Orangeville for more than 20 years. |
Drew LeRoy accepted the award for business of the year from Orangeville for Food Ranch. LeRoy said he grew up in Huntington and after college worked at Associated Foods in Salt Lake for 10 years. During this time he wanted to come home so he talked to Marion Jensen who owned the Thrif-T Market in Huntington and she said they have decided to keep the store for their family, but suggested that LeRoy look for a location in Orangeville. LeRoy located a metal horse barn in Orangeville and convinced the owner to sell to him to begin a grocery store. Since locating in Orangeville, the Food Ranch has undergone two expansion projects. LeRoy said as a business owner in Emery County 12-14 hour days are normal. He views the customers at Food Ranch as its greatest asset. LeRoy said he loves the opportunity to work and live in Emery County and appreciates the support he has received from county residents in the operation of his business.
LeRoy believes it is a challenge to local businesses to educate the customers on the benefits of shopping at home. If local people support local businesses then the money spent will stay in the county and be spent many times over. Local businesses will be able to hire more people, if they receive more support. “Emery County is a great place to live and do business,” said LeRoy.