Marking a monumental milestone, Clark’s for Shopping, a family-owned grocery store and a long-standing member of Associated Food Stores, is celebrating 100 years of dedicated service to the community of Oakley, Idaho. The store’s origins trace back to 1924 when brothers John and Charles Clark established The Clark Brothers and took ownership of Central Market on Main Street. Over the decades, the store expanded its reach and influence, evolving through the leadership of successive generations while preserving its strong community roots.
In 1938, the Clarks acquired a second building from ZCMMI (later known as ZCMI), allowing Charles and his sons to manage “The Merc.” while John and his sons continued operations at “Central Market.” This dual-store approach flourished, bolstered by their mother’s now-famous breakfast sausage recipe, which continues to be a local favorite. The brothers’ ingenuity was also evident in their commitment to innovation, as seen when they modernized The Merc. with updated refrigeration and freezer systems, rebranding it as Clark’s for Shopping.
Over its century-long history, Clark’s for Shopping has witnessed and adapted to immense change. The store was the first in Idaho authorized for state meat inspection, proudly displaying the certification on its products. For 50 years, the Clarks’ deep-pit BBQ, served during community events like Oakley’s Pioneer Days, drew crowds by the thousands. At Christmas, the store transformed into a winter wonderland with a special Toy Land, Santa visits, and even a Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer display that delighted children and adults.
The store’s legacy extends beyond retail into meaningful community involvement. John Clark served as Cassia County Commissioner for two decades, while Charles Clark and subsequent generations have been active in local governance, emergency services, and cultural initiatives. Harlo Clark, the current owner and grandson of John Clark, has not only managed the store but has also served as Oakley’s fire chief for 30 years and directed numerous productions for the Oakley Valley Arts Council.
Clark’s for Shopping faced significant challenges, including competition from big-box retailers like K-Mart, Walmart, and Costco. The store adapted by focusing on staple grocery items and streamlining its product offerings. These changes, coupled with strong community ties and personalized customer service, have sustained its relevance and appeal.
The building itself, constructed in 1883 and financed by ZCMI, adds to the rich history of Clark’s. Featuring original pressed-tin ceilings and large, light-filled front windows, it is believed to be Idaho’s oldest occupied retail store. Occupying this historical space has its challenges, including navigating regulatory changes such as those introduced by OSHA, which once impacted their custom meat processing operations. Nonetheless, the store pivoted successfully, later expanding into prepared food services, including a thriving pizza business.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Clark’s for Shopping, like many small businesses, faced uncertainty. Yet, the store rose to the challenge, offering curbside pickup and home deliveries that kept the community nourished and connected during difficult times. Harlo credits Associated Food Stores for supporting them through supply chain disruptions, enabling Clark’s to thrive even under unprecedented pressure.
The centennial celebration held this summer featured BBQ meals priced at just $1, a nod to the store’s long-standing tradition of affordable, high-quality food. The event included a treasure hunt showcasing the store’s historic artifacts, door prizes, and a special gift of 10 pounds of their famous breakfast sausage to the 100th customer.
“I am the last member of the Clark family to have interest in the business,” said Harlo. “My siblings and children are all successful business professionals. It has been left to me to determine the course that lies ahead. As I have planned out this celebration year, my memories of my Clark family ancestors have become clearer and more appreciated. The feeling of responsibility to be the one left to carry the torch has been humbling. I have found myself feeling homesick for those that paved the way for this milestone. My determination is to continue to serve our many friends and neighbors in Oakley for as long as my health will allow me and to prepare the business to be acquired by a new owner who will continue the shopping legacy that my family has worked so hard to achieve.”