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.
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.
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. Why did you want to open your business in this community?
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.
A. That you must never stop looking for ways to improve by helping better serve your customers.
