About us

A little about the store

Friends & Family Market is a family-run grocery store on State Street in Ellsworth Falls with a meat counter, a bakery, and all the aisles in between. Here's how the store came to be ours, who runs it day to day, and who you'll see when you come in.

The Friends & Family Market storefront in Ellsworth Falls, Maine

Our story

Family-owned, right here in Ellsworth Falls

We took over in 2017 and kept what worked: real people behind the counter, a bakery worth the trip and a store small enough to remember your name. Along the way we've expanded our name brand items, nation brand groceries, customer requests and added many niche items so you get the quality and selection without the drive to town.

Ask around Ellsworth and you'll hear the same two things: the meat counter is a cut above, and the bakery case is worth getting up early for. That reputation is the whole reason we're here.

photo of Friends and Family Market owners David and Jane Welch

The owners

Meet David and Jane

David and Jane bought the store in 2017, and you can usually find them right here working alongside the team and taking care of whatever the day brings.

Between David, Matt, and Jane, they know our regular customers and what they like to come in for. That’s why special orders, our Butcher’s Bundles, and specialty items are still handled the old-fashioned way: personally, with care and attention to what you need.

We’re proud to be more than just a grocery store. We’re a place where neighbors know your name, friends become family, and everyone who walks through our doors is treated like one of our own.

Stop in, say hello, and see for yourself why we truly are friends and family here.

Who you'll see

Meet the team

Portrait of Matthew Welch, store manager

Matt Welch

Store Manager

9 years at the store

Matt has been keeping things running at Friends & Family Market since the Welch family took over in 2017. If something needs fixing, chances are he’s already on it and if it needs doing, he’ll find a way to get it done.

He’s also one of the friendly faces our customers have come to know and count on. His great service and easygoing personality keep folks coming back, and we’re pretty sure he must have a secret supply of batteries somewhere because he’s our very own Energizer Bunny!

Photo of Chris

Chris

Butcher

21 years at the store

Chris is a dependable part of the grocery store team, keeping the meat department organized, well-stocked, and ready for customers. His attention to quality helps make the department a trusted stop for shoppers.

Photo of Bobby

Bobby

Butcher

4 years at the store

Bobby brings a friendly face and a helping hand to the meat department. Whether preparing cuts, answering questions, or helping customers find what they need, he is always ready to assist.

Photo of Traci

Traci

Bakery Lead

8 years at the store

Traci’s usually here before the sun is up, getting the day started in the bakery. Most days, the goodies in the case are still warm when we open the doors and she’s the reason the whole store smells so good while you shop.

If you catch her early, be sure to say hi!

Photo of Amy

Amy

Produce/Deli Manager

1 year at the store

Amy brings a warm, welcoming presence to the produce and deli departments. She works hard to make sure customers find fresh, quality food and enjoy the kind of friendly service you expect from your neighborhood grocery store.

Photo of Jill

Jill

Floater

3 years at the store

Jill is a dependable team player who is quick to help wherever she’s needed. Whether helping customers, stocking shelves, or assisting coworkers, her flexibility and willingness to lend a hand help keep the store running smoothly.

Photo of Holly

Holly

Floater

First year at the store

Holly is always ready to jump in and help wherever she’s needed. Her flexibility and willingness to take on different tasks make her a valuable part of the grocery store team.

Photo of Fran

Fran

Office

3 years at the store

Fran’s a familiar and friendly face at the store, bringing years of connection to the local community. From preparing cashier bags and counting the day’s receipts to handling lottery tickets, she keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. She also enjoys helping customers and catching up with the many familiar faces she’s known in the community for years.

Photo of Larry

Larry

Cashier

3 years at the store

Larry is one of the friendly faces customers see at checkout. He helps customers complete their purchases, handles transactions accurately, and provides helpful, welcoming service to shoppers.