Hamlet has a new addition that offers fuel for your vehicle as well as your belly. Alco, at the corner of Highway 74 and 177, opened for business on August 18 and the adjoining Dairy Queen opens on Monday, August 28. This dual-purpose enterprise has been 5 months in the making.
We recently caught up with Frankie Lewis, district manager of all 6 Alco locations, to discuss their latest venture. According to Lewis, Alco is owned by Larry Graham and Pat Molamphy, through Albemarle Oil Company. “They’re great owners and great people,” Lewis said enthusiastically.
Due to franchising requirements, the Dairy Queen and Alco store are being operated and managed separately. It won’t be obvious to patrons though, as they will be able to freely walk between the two stores while in operation. “It’s a home convenience store, very clean and spacious,” according to Lewis.
Employees were brought onboard 3 weeks prior to opening to give adequate time for training. The store has a family atmosphere, easily seen in the friendly staff members who are eager to help customers as they enter. One employee, TiTi, said, “I feel at home here, it’s welcoming.”
Come out to Alco Hamlet for some cool refreshment soon!
