Ray’s Grocery & Market on West Walker Street in Breckenridge, Texas, will close May 16. The store’s owners, Ray and Beverly Olson, made the announcement on the company’s Facebook page Monday evening. Ray’s opened in 1974.
“Any small-business owner knows that there are many seasons of success within the span of your career,” the Olsons say in the social media post. “The ebb and flow is constant, and there comes a point in every business where you must reflect and regroup… and sometimes, you are presented with opportunities that simply cannot be turned down.
“While we are incredibly saddened that Ray’s is closing, we are also looking forward to a new adventure with our customers. Our friends across the street have extended their hand, and we are taking a leap of faith with them. So, over the course of the next few weeks, you will begin to see the ‘Ray’s Grocery experience’ infused into the atmosphere at United Supermarkets. Ray’s famous deli, including our signature barbecue, sandwiches, burgers, wraps and beans, will soon have a new home in the deli at United. United will also be serving up our delicious breakfast menu each morning. It is fast, fresh and customizable—the perfect way to start your day! In addition, United will continue to provide Ray’s full catering menu, including our one-of-a-kind fajitas with all the trimmings.”
Lee Olson says he plans to join the United team as store director “to help cultivate the new partnership and to provide any necessary guidance as we develop a shared vision based on our mutual commitment to excellence.”
“This partnership is an exciting and unique opportunity for us to combine the personal touch of Ray’s with the renowned reputation of United Supermarkets,” the Olsons say. “We truly believe that together we will build a new shopping experience for Breckenridge that combines the best aspects of both stores to create a hometown store that is reflective of the incredible people it serves and is fully integrated into the culture of our community.”
Ray’s plans to continue to use its original building for wild game processing and says it is pursuing a state permit to make and distribute its homemade sausage and beef jerky to stores across the state.
