Terry Olson is retiring from Eastside & Westside Markets after 43 years of ownership. Eastside Market was started in a small wooden shack in the 1940’s by Edith and Bill Bush of St. George, KS.
In the mid-70’s it was operated by the McKeeman family. Terry and some of the other market employees worked for the McKeeman family prior to Terry purchasing the business in 1976. Westside Market operated out of the old Dog ‘n Suds Building from 1979 and 1980 before the current building was erected in 1981 at about the same time as the Manhattan Holidome.
She attributes the success of the markets to the dedication of her hard-working staff, local vendors and farmers, and the loyalty of her customers.
Several factors led to the decision to close, but chief among them was the east location’s real estate owners’ desire to sell the property at the Eastside Market location and the increasing challenge of purchasing and transporting the product as a small retailer. Terry will enjoy having more time to travel, run competitively, and spend time with family.
Eastside and Westside Markets were well known for their in-season peaches from Idaho and Colorado. Many locals also shopped for local produce, herbs, and plants. Earlier this month, People’s Grocery Co-op closed after almost 50 years. The Co-op also carried local produce from area farmers.
Olson wrote online, “I’m retiring and going out of business. Bittersweet because I hate to let my employees and customers down, but glad to do this when I have good health to travel, run, and spend more time with family.”
The Mercury reported, “Olson has owned the business since 1976, but the timing of the property owners’ desire to sell the building and difficulties obtaining quality produce as a small retailer drove her decision to retire.”
The going out of business sale will continue now through the approximate last day of business on November 23rd in order to give customers time to use up unexpired gift cards.
So sad to see this great business go. Doesn’t anyone want to but it and keep it going?
Good memories! Enjoy life a little!
So sad to see this business close!!! Isn’t there anyone that wants to buy it? ??
Sorry to see you close but understand and certainly respect your decision. Two of our 4 children that got degrees at K-State worked at your markets. They had jobs when they needed them and also learned about working with the public. Those are skills that continue to help them today. Best of everything in your retirement Terry.
I can be nothing but happy for you because I’m so much enjoying retirement but still oh so sad to see you go. Shopping at the Eastside will be one of my cherished memories.
Terry, it’s been such fun to visit Manhattan and your awesome Markets over the years. Without even seeing you there, I felt connected to my HS classmate and memories of days gone by. I’m retiring in May too – it’s our time, and you’ve earned a fun & free calendar to do whatever you Love! Congratulations, and ENJOY!
What would it take buy the place hate to see it go