Twenty-four years ago, Donald Frandrup called a family meeting and said that he would purchase a C-store if his family would run it. They jumped at the chance, so he purchased Kasel Fairway Foods in 2000 and turned it into Vermillion Pump and Market.
Donald installed gas pumps and remodeled the store into a full convenience store with liquor, but his daughters Milinda and Maureen agree that their business is so much “more than just a convenience store.”
Vermillion Pump and Market is known for their great gas prices, food trucks and locally sourced goods, including eggs from a cousin’s farm in Miesville, bakery items from Farmington, popcorn from another cousin’s shop in Apple Valley and Greg’s Meats from Hampton. They have a great selection of seasonal gifts and décor and were even featured on Twin Cities Live for their Winter Wonderland display during the holiday season.
However, the heart of their business is the family-owned and operated aspect. Milinda and Maureen both work at the store full time, two other sisters work part time and everyone, including their mom, picks up regular shifts.
“We’re really proud of the customer service we provide,” said Maureen. “We have a great, trustworthy staff who treat customers well, so they keep coming back,” she added. “We truly appreciate our customers and treat them like family.”
Their favorite part of selling lottery? The winners, of course! “We love to see people excited about winning,” explained Milinda. “Even if it’s only $4, players are excited about it and their chance for a big win.”
A recent $50,000 scratch ticket sold in their store has been the talk of the town. “It’s been pretty exciting,” she added.
