Ron McIntire leads by example at Super 1 Foods

Fifty-six years ago, Ron McIntire opened his first grocery store in Hayden.

Success was far from guaranteed for Ron's Thrift Store, as it was known then. But through hard work, dedication and a commitment to customers, the business grew. One store became many.

On Thursday, Super 1 Foods, founded by McIntire, broke ground on its 17th store in Idaho and Montana.

The reason is no mystery. Super 1 Foods is more than a grocery store. The McIntire family and its team are woven into the communities they serve, supporting countless nonprofits and organizations. They are generous, approachable and deeply invested in their hometowns. Customers notice.

As he nears 90, Ron McIntire remains the heart of the company. He still shows up at the Hayden store where it all began. It's not unusual to see him walking the aisles, greeting customers, straightening displays or lending a hand wherever needed.

His smile and welcoming demeanor are as much a part of Super 1 as the shelves and shopping carts.

Over the years, the Press has spoken with McIntire many times, including on the company's 50th and 55th anniversaries. We were there last year, too, when a statue in his likeness was unveiled at McIntire Family Park.

In those conversations, this humble man has shared simple but enduring wisdom:

"It's no different than it was 50 years ago. You still have to work and work and hope and do all the other things. Lots of work. Pay attention. Listen carefully."

"You keep doing things. Just keep busy."

"The kids that were in carts are the grandmas and grandpas today, bringing their kids in. It's just fun."

"You have to have a little free time. I let the kids run the business. Eventually they'll have it all, anyway."

Steve Griffitts, former Hayden mayor, once said this about Ron McIntire and family: "For 45 years, Hayden has benefited greatly from the generosity of these wonderful people. Joanne, Ron and family, on behalf of all the citizens of Hayden, we again want to thank you for all your years of service, for your love and for your kindness. There is no greater legacy than to be able to have the McIntire Family Park."

We agree.

Fifty-six years after opening that first store, Ron McIntire's greatest achievement isn't the number of locations bearing the Super 1 name. It's the communities, customers and generations of families he has served along the way. 

Congratulations to Ron McIntire and the entire Super 1 Foods team. Here's to the next chapter.