Grocery shopping and Strack & Van Til have been synonymous in the Region after nearly a century of service. With Strack’s celebrating its 94th Anniversary this month, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the franchise and the values that have made it a Northwest Indiana favorite.
Strack & Van Til marks its birthday on the anniversary of co-Founder Ernie Strack’s first grocery store opening in Griffith in 1929. When co-Founder Nick Van Til entered the grocery scene in 1954, it was only a matter of time before the two leaders of modern grocery stores would join together. In 1959, the two partnered to create a food supermarket in Highland, and Strack & Van Til went from a few grocery stores to a Region-wide chain that incorporates 22 different shopping centers today.
Both Strack and Van Til were firm in their beliefs that the fastest track to success was a great customer experience, and this philosophy still directs Strack & Van Til in its operations.
“We embrace the community, which is why I think the community embraces us,” said Renee Thometz, marketing manager.
Embracing the community goes beyond just catering to customers in the store. Whether it be the year long Check Out Challenge Round Ups, the Apples for the Students Program to help schools get free educational equipment, donating to local food pantries, and so much more, Strack & Van Til is sure to always give back.
“We support many, many different charities and organizations who give back to our community and help make it a better place to live," said Thometz.
While it may be Strack & Van Til’s Anniversary Celebration month, the chain is looking to pass the gifts on to its customers. Throughout the month, shoppers at all Strack & Van Til stores have the opportunity to enter to win several prizes, including a huge grand prize.
“We are giving away a 2024 Chevy Equinox from Garber Chevrolet Highland,” said Thometz. “It's a pretty big anniversary, so what better way to thank our customers for 94 years than offering them the chance to win a new car?”
In addition to the car, customers can also win weekly $100 gift cards throughout October. Entering the sweepstakes is easy; simply maintain an active digital rewards account from October 4 – October 31 to be eligible for random selection.
For those looking to become a digital rewards member, visit strackandvantil.com/loyalty or download the Strack & Van Til app from either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store to sign up. On top of being eligible for the Anniversary Sweepstakes, rewards members enjoy the benefits of digital coupons, exclusive deals, personalized ads and offers and more.
Strack and Van Til has been proud to serve the Region for nearly a century, and they are even more proud of the positive impact they make in the community.
“Our vision is to make people’s lives easier” said Thometz. “Our mission is to provide an outstanding shopping experience, exceptional customer service, clean stores, product variety, and solutions that continually evolve to meet the needs of our customers and communities we serve. When you see this in action every day, it makes me proud.”
To learn more about Strack & Van Til’s history, services provided, or celebration details, visit strackandvantil.com.
