Business investing close to $800k in store

NORWALK — A long-standing community staple in Norwalk is expected to undergo a major upgrade later this month. Dave's Food Mart, the family-owned convenience store at 84 Benedict Ave., which also has a location in Avery, is undergoing a nearly $800,000 overhaul at its Norwalk location focused largely on infrastructure improvements, accessibility and operational efficiency. Joe Fisher, the store's owner, said the idea to improve its Norwalk location stemmed from having already redone its Avery location. "A lot has changed (since) when we started in our current building, and we could really benefit from a complete rebuild. However, it's just not cost-effective to close for as long as that would take and spend that amount of money," Fisher said. "We have decided to do the best we can with what we have and hope it's enough to keep people coming back and supporting us." Fisher said that the project has been in development since January 2025, with much of that time devoted to planning and securing contractors. Major improvements The store is undergoing several upgrades, including a complete overhaul of the fuel area that houses underground tanks and pumps. While these changes may not be immediately apparent, Fisher emphasized that the work is expensive but essential to maintaining fuel service in the future. Other improvements involve installing a new kitchen exhaust hood with makeup air, which will help control indoor temperatures and minimize cooking odors throughout the store. A stainless-steel backsplash will be added to the kitchen for better sanitation and easier cleaning. Fisher added that the current restroom will be replaced by a new, larger and more accessible facility located behind the store, which will meet current codes and be easier to maintain. Outside, the asphalt lot will be replaced with concrete, and the front step will be removed for a smoother, safer and more accessible surface for vehicles and pedestrians. The renovation also includes a new 30-foot-by-16-foot walk-in cooler to replace two older refrigeration units. This larger cooler will enable the store to keep more products refrigerated and readily available, improving staff efficiency during stocking and receiving deliveries. What can customers expect? Fisher said that other upgrades, such as replacing the roof, are simply for routine maintenance, while others, such as replacing the siding to match the front of the building and converting the old restroom into a storage room, are merely cosmetic. "Our customers can expect a clean, accessible restroom if they would need it. A more climate-controlled environment, a bit cooler in the summer, and warmer in the winter," Fisher added. Although the renovations will not add new departments or services, Fisher said the company's operational model already allows it to maximize efficiency. Bakery items, deli selections and hot lunch specials are prepared by a dedicated team at the company's Avery location and distributed to the Norwalk store, eliminating the need for duplicate equipment and staffing at locations just seven miles apart. The project was originally budgeted at approximately $700,000, but unexpected costs have pushed the total closer to $800,000. During the renovation, customers should expect occasional disruptions: • The kitchen will close periodically • Fuel pumps may be unavailable for up to two weeks • The storefront may close for a day • The drive-thru may shut down for several days at a time. However, Fisher said at least one part of the business will remain open throughout the project. "In an industry of heavy competition, we as a small independent family business must step up our game to compete effectively," Fisher said.