Jordan Beck | Daily Press Jim’s South Side cashier Gina Hardwick, left, rings up a purchase made by Escanaba resident (and former employee of the store) Jenny Sigfrids.

ESCANABA — The store now known as Jim’s South Side has long been a part of the community. However, it has changed owners and names over the years.

The building that currently houses Jim’s was constructed in the 1960s.

“It was Tryg’s Supermarket before the ’60s,” cashier Gina Hardwick said.

Before current owner Jim Berthiaume took over, the store was known as “Gary’s South Side” and was owned by Gary and Jeannie Howard.

“Jim bought it about 10 years ago, and he had it ever since,” de facto manager Maggie Nyman said.

Business at Jim’s has been “pretty good” in recent years, Nyman said. People in the area have continued to shop at Berthiaume’s store.

“He’s got his regulars, and they’re very loyal customers,” Hardwick said.

The store does offer groceries, but these are not among its most popular items.

“Beer and liquor’s what makes the store (go) round,” Nyman said.

Cigarettes and candy also sell well at Jim’s. Hardwick noted some candy sold at the store is not offered elsewhere locally.

“He’s got a big selection,” she said.

According to Hardwick, the store intends to expand its grocery offerings in the future.

“Jim’s trying right now to bring more groceries back into the store — to see how that works,” she said.

Hardwick noted Berthiaume’s goal is to “be there for the community” and its grocery needs. Additional frozen food items, among other products, are slated to be sold at the store as part of its efforts to boost its selection of groceries.

In the meantime, Nyman said Jim’s does take special orders.

“If someone wants something, then we can get it for them,” she said.

Both Hardwick and Nyman thanked community members for their continued support of Jim’s.

“If people didn’t come here, then we wouldn’t have a store,” Nyman said.

Hardwick encouraged people in the area to stop by.

“We’re all pretty easy to get along with,” she said.