Every month we sit down with one of our amazing ABA members to get to know them a little better! For April, we spoke with Curtiss Stafford from Alton Circle Grocery. We ask each member the same questions, providing an opportunity for our members to highlight the important work that they do in our communities. If you’re an ABA Member and would like to be considered for future Monthly Member Highlights, please reach out to us via email at info@altonbusinessassociation.com

Q. Tell us about your business
A. Alton Circle Grocery is a locally owned gas station and convenience store with more to offer than usual. Grab a sandwich from the Deli, some delicious pizza from Jack’s, or just sample a 4-pack of craft beer from our selection. We have so much more!

Q. Tell us about yourself

A. After graduating locally from Laconia High School and earning my MBA, my wife and I lived in Boston for several years. We decided to return to the Lakes Region in 2006 knowing what a special area it is to raise a family. To this day, that is still one of the best decisions we have made. We have three boys which takes up most of our time. We also enjoy outdoor activities including skiing, spending time on the lakes, and hiking.

Q. How did your business get started?

A. Alton Circle Grocery is owned by Stafford Oil Company which began in 1928 when my great-grandfather, George C. Stafford and his sons Walter, William, David, Theo and Charles opened George C. Stafford and Sons, selling heating oil, gasoline and appliances. That business has grown over the years and we now own four gasoline stations, three of which we operate ourselves. Stafford Oil Company recently began selling propane, in addition to other heating fuels such as heating oil, kerosene, and dyed diesel.

Q. What has your relationship with the Alton Business Association done for you or your business?

A. The Alton Business Association has helped expose us to the wonderful businesses in the community and it has given us more opportunities to support local activities.

Q. What do you value most about this community?
A. The Alton area is filled with loyal customers who support their community and the businesses within it. It is a very tight-knit yet welcoming community.

Q. Why did you want to open your business in this community?

A. Alton is a major gateway to NH’s Lakes Region, especially for people traveling from southeastern NH and the North Shore of Massachusetts. It is a beautiful area that welcomes vacationers throughout the year.
Q. What business accomplishment are you most proud of?
A. We are proud that we have been able to have gained the support of the Alton community. We try to show our appreciation by giving back to the community knowing how much support we have received!

Q. What does the future hold for you and your business?

A. With the push to decrease carbon emissions, there will likely be an increase in the number of electric-powered vehicles over the coming years which could reduce our gasoline sales. We will need to continue to evolve so that we can provide value-added services to our customers in the Alton community, its visitors, and anyone traveling through the area, regardless of what challenges we face.

 

Q. What is one piece of advice you wish you had as a new business owner?

A. That you must never stop looking for ways to improve by helping better serve your customers.

Q. How can people who want to learn more about you or your business get in touch with you?
A.  They can call Alton Circle Grocery at our store at 875-2861, e-mail us at acg@metrocast.net, or visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=Alton%20Circle%20Grocery. We are always looking for ways that we can better serve our customers!
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