What Are Harps Food Stores?
Harps Food Stores is a grocery chain that helps families access food and essential items. It started in Springdale, Arkansas, in 1930. Founders Harvard and Floy Harp began with one small store. Today, Harps Food Stores has over 150 locations across states like Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Kansas. The stores sell fresh produce, bakery items, deli meats, and pharmacy products. Additionally, Harps Food Stores has been employee-owned since 2001. It means workers own the company, so they are deeply invested in making customers happy.
The History of Harps Food Stores
Harps Food Stores began in 1930 with Harvard and Floy Harp. They opened their first shop, Harps Cash Grocery, in Springdale, Arkansas. They used $500 to start. Over the years, the store grew bigger. By the 1950s, their son Don joined the business. In 1964, Harps Food Stores opened a second location. Later, Don’s brothers, Gerald and Reland, helped run the company. In 2001, Harps became employee-owned. It was a significant change. Now, employees work hard to keep customers smiling. Harps Food Stores continues to grow while remaining true to its small-town roots.
Why Harps Food Stores Is Employee-Owned
Harps Food Stores became employee-owned in 2001. It means the workers own the company. They bought shares from the Harp family through a special plan called ESOP. As a result, employees take a deep interest in their jobs. They strive to provide excellent customer service. Also, being employee-owned makes Harps Food Stores special. Workers feel proud to help their communities. For example, they focus on maintaining clean and friendly stores. Therefore, Harps Food Stores builds trust with shoppers. It’s a big reason why people keep coming back to shop there.
Where to Find Harps Food Stores
Harps Food Stores has locations in many states. You can find them in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Kansas. The company runs over 150 stores. Some operate under names like Food4Less, CashSaver, and The Markets. For instance, The market stores are in Louisiana and Mississippi. Also, Harps Food Stores has a store locator on its website. You can type your city to find the nearest shop. It makes shopping easy. If you live in these states, Harps Food Stores is likely close by for your grocery needs.
Fresh Produce at Harps Food Stores
Harps Food Stores is known for fresh produce. They sell fruits and veggies that are bright and healthy. For example, you can find apples, bananas, and carrots in every store. The company works hard to keep items fresh. They obtain supplies from trusted partners, such as Associated Wholesale Grocers in Kansas.
Additionally, Harps Food Stores offers a variety of organic options. It means no chemicals are used on some fruits. Kids love picking out colorful produce here. So, when you shop at Harps Food Stores, you know you’re getting the best for your family.
Bakery Delights at Harps Food Stores
The bakery at Harps Food Stores is a treat. They make fresh items every day. For example, you can buy Martha Harp Honey-Dipped Donuts. These are soft and sweet. Also, they bake dinner rolls and apple pies. The bakery team even competes in contests and wins awards. Moreover, you can order custom cakes for birthdays. The decorators make them pretty and yummy. Therefore, Harps Food Stores is a great place for baked goods. Stop by the bakery section to grab something delicious for your next meal or party.
Deli and Meat at Harps Food Stores
Harps Food Stores has a great deli section. They sell meats, such as fried chicken and rotisserie chicken. The chicken is juicy and fresh. Also, you can get party trays for events. These trays have meats, cheeses, and veggies.
Additionally, the meat department offers a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and poultry. They label it “No Solution Added,” which means it’s natural. For example, brands like Tyson and Smart Chicken are available. So, Harps Food Stores makes meals easy. Pick up some deli items or fresh meat for a tasty dinner tonight.
Pharmacy Services at Harps Food Stores
Many Harps Food Stores locations have a pharmacy. Here, you can get medicines and health advice. Pharmacists help with questions about pills. For example, they can explain how to take your medicine. Also, some stores offer health checkups. The pharmacy is open on weekdays and Saturdays. However, it’s closed on Sundays and holidays. Therefore, Harps Food Stores cares about your health. If you need a prescription, visit their pharmacy. It’s a convenient way to shop for groceries and get your medicines all in one place.
Digital Coupons and Weekly Ads
Harps Food Stores offers digital coupons to save money. You can find them on their website or app. For example, you might get $1 off milk. Also, they share weekly ads. These show special deals each week. You can see what’s on sale, like bread or snacks. Moreover, signing up for their email gives you alerts about new offers. It makes shopping bright and fun. Therefore, Harps Food Stores helps you keep more money in your pocket. Check their website before you shop to grab the best deals.
Shopping Experience at Harps Food Stores
The shopping experience at Harps Food Stores is excellent. Stores are clean and bright. Staff are friendly and ready to help. For example, they greet you with smiles. Additionally, aisles are easy to navigate. You can find what you need fast.
Additionally, some stores offer pickup and delivery. It means you can shop online, and they’ll bring groceries to your car. So, Harps Food Stores makes shopping simple. Even kids enjoy going with their parents. Visit a store to see why people love shopping there so much.
Customer Service at Harps Food Stores
Customer service at Harps Stores is top-notch. Employees work hard to help you. For instance, they answer questions about products. If you can’t find something, they’ll show you where it is. Also, the company trains staff to be kind. They want every shopper to feel welcome. Moreover, you can contact them online or by phone with issues. This focus on service stems from our employee ownership. Therefore, Harps Stores builds strong bonds with customers. Good service keeps people coming back for more groceries.
Inventory Optimization at Harps Food Stores
Harps Stores utilizes inventory optimization to maintain a whole shelf. They work with a company called Upshop. It helps them know what products to order. For example, they track what sells quickly, such as milk or bread. Additionally, they ensure that fresh produce doesn’t spoil. This system saves time for workers.
Additionally, it keeps customers happy because items are always in stock. So, Harps Stores runs smoothly. You’ll rarely find empty shelves when you shop. This thoughtful planning makes them a great grocery chain to visit.
Retail Media at Harps Food Stores
Harps Stores uses retail media to share news with shoppers. They partnered with Grocery TV to add digital screens in stores. These screens show ads and deals. For example, you might see a sale on cookies while shopping. Additionally, the screens are located in 143 stores across states such as Arkansas and Missouri. It helps Harps Stores tell customers about new products. Moreover, it makes shopping more exciting. The screens are easy to see and understand. So, Harps Stores uses tech to make your trip to the store even better.
Pricing Strategy of Harps Food Stores
Harps Stores has a smart pricing strategy. They keep prices low to help families save. For instance, during tough times, they sold eggs at cost. It means they didn’t make extra money on them. Additionally, they avoid raising prices excessively. They compete with big stores like Walmart.
Additionally, their weekly ads show deals to stretch your budget. Therefore, Harps Stores cares about your wallet. You can shop without worrying about spending too much. It makes them a favorite for many shoppers in small towns.
Community Involvement by Harps Food Stores
Harps Stores loves helping communities. They support over 200 charities. For example, they give to Meals for Kids and the Red Cross. Also, they focus on small towns. It brings fresh food to places without big stores. Moreover, they contribute to the local economy by paying taxes. Some stores even have electric vehicle chargers. It shows they care about the future. So, Harps Stores is more than a store. They help make towns better places to live. Shop there to support your neighbors.
Acquisitions by Harps Food Stores
Harps Stores grows by buying other stores. In 2020, they had 20 stores in Arkansas and Missouri. Then, in 2022, they purchased The Markets in Louisiana and Mississippi. Also, in 2023, they added Janise’s Supermarket in Louisiana. These acquisitions enable Harps to reach a wider audience. For example, The Markets added seven new stores. They retain the old store names to please locals. Therefore, Harps Stores continues to grow. It means more families can shop at their stores in new places.
Bakery and Deli Favorites
Kids love the bakery and deli at Harps Stores. The bakery makes delicious treats, such as donuts and cakes. For instance, their apple pie is a big hit. Additionally, the deli offers fried chicken that’s crispy and delicious. You can grab a rotisserie chicken for dinner.
Additionally, party trays are perfect for birthdays. They have cheese, meat, and veggies. So, Harps Stores makes eating fun. Stop by the deli or bakery to try something new. You’ll find lots of favorites for your family.
How Harps Food Stores Supports Small Towns
Harps Stores helps small towns a lot. They open stores in places without big supermarkets. It gives people fresh food nearby. For example, cities in Arkansas and Missouri benefit. Additionally, they create jobs for residents. It keeps money in the area. Moreover, their stores improve life by offering healthy options. People don’t have to drive far for groceries. Therefore, Harps Stores is a friend to small communities. They make sure everyone has what they need. Shop at Harps to support your town.
Technology at Harps Food Stores
Harps Stores utilizes technology to enhance the shopping experience. They have digital coupons on their website. Also, they added screens in stores for retail media. These show deals while you shop. Additionally, some stores offer online ordering. You can pick up groceries or get them delivered. It saves time for busy families. Moreover, their inventory system ensures that shelves are always stocked. So, Harps Stores uses tech to help you. Even kids can understand how it works. Visit a store to see these cool tools in action.
Conclusion
Harps Food Stores is a wonderful grocery chain for everyone. They offer fresh food, great prices, and friendly service. From Arkansas to Louisiana, their stores help small towns thrive. Additionally, they utilize technology such as digital coupons and retail media to make shopping more enjoyable. Being employee-owned means they care about customers. Want fresh produce or a yummy cake? Visit Harps Stores today! Use their store locator to find one near you. Shop now and enjoy a great experience with your family. Harps are waiting to welcome you!
References:
- Harps Food Stores Official Website. (2025). About Us and Services.
- Arkansas Business. (2024). Harps Food Stores: A Billion-Dollar Success Story.
- Grocery Dive. (2024). Harps Food Stores Sets Up In-Store Retail Media.
- Upshop. (2023). Harps Food Stores Enhances Operational Excellence.
