Welches Liquor Store Celebrates 30 Years of Business

By: Amber Ford, The Mountain Times

Owning and running a business is a challenge. Keeping the business operational and successful is another hurdle. But operating for thirty years while retaining a location in a small town is an achievement in and of itself. The Liquor Store speaks of success and longevity, and celebrates thirty years of business on July 1st. 

Liquor store owner Glenda Peterson is excited to ring in this anniversary with her all-star crew of employees, a team she credits for much of the success the business has had over the last thirty years. With the ups and downs of business ownership and decades of experience under her belt, Peterson’s knowledge of the community and her customers is the backbone of The Liquor Store’s legacy in The Mt. Hood Villages. “I have a great location,” she said, adding “I get to know the locals, and we have many out of town and out of state customers who praise our easy access and the clean and comfortable store.” 

Relocating to The Mt. Hood Villages in 1984, Peterson decided to take advantage of her business background with the purchase of The Liquor Store in 1996. “I loved the area and thought it was a perfect fit for me,” she said, crediting the community and beauty of the Mount Hood Villages. Owning The Liquor Store has been full of the ebbs and flows of business ownership: challenges have been a natural part of her success. “Being so far away from suppliers has always been a challenge,” she said, adding “security was a problem because we have no local police, but I now have alarms and cameras that really help.”

While Peterson acknowledges the growing pains, the rewards have been a huge part of her continued success. “I have gained so many friendships,” she said, adding “I so loved getting to know the locals and the business community.” Unlike stores in the city, where customers come and go, Peterson understands the importance of building community. She attends local Chamber of Commerce meetings: networking has always been part of the success of The Liquor Store. “Chamber meetings are a great opportunity to meet other business owners and merchants,” as is participation in community-sponsored social events. 

The Liquor Store is known for their amazing staff,  their dedicated owner, and their years of service to The Mt. Hood Villages, but also as a source of product for many locals bars and restaurants. Processing liquor orders and networking with other local businesses, The Liquor Store has become a staple within the community. Keeping up her high standards, Peterson knows it’s also the behind-the scenes-relationships that really contribute to her success. "I have had a great relationship with the O.L.C.C. (Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission), and my district representatives have been so helpful.” 

Peterson knows the overall success of the last thirty years has been, in huge part, attributable to her incredible staff and loyal customers. “I would like to thank the locals and the many friends I have met over the years –  I appreciate you all!"