Interview with Jamal Alkayali, co-owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: It’s been a family business for a long time. My mom used to manage a bunch of convenience stores in Chicago, and when she moved to Colorado, we got our own convenience store and started running it.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: The variety of products that we stock and our customer service. We put a lot into customer service to get to know all of our customers. And I always have the item someone is looking for. I’m never out of anything. I always keep everything fully stocked.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: Working with the customers and seeing the same people every day. Also, working with a variety of people and helping them find what they need.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Competing with Walmart and Albertsons. I’m always trying to keep my prices down and constantly improve where I shop so that I can carry on the savings to the customer.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: We’ve had a lot of Lotto winners lately. We’ve sold a lot of big money scratch tickets. We recently sold a $20,000 winner and we’ve had million dollar winners here a couple times as well.
Profile
Business: Deno’s Country Store
Address: 400 E. 100th Ave., Thornton
Hours: 5 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m.
Founded: 1997
Contact: 303-450-7152
Employees: 9
