In a surprising turn of events, acclaimed crime writer Gregg Olsen has found himself at the helm of a small business in Olalla, Washington, after the closure of the local convenience store and eatery, Al’s Market. This unexpected venture comes on the heels of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which left the store in disrepair and on the brink of abandonment.
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Al’s Market was more than just a place to shop; it was a community hub, steeped in nostalgia. Once a thriving establishment, it offered everything from single cigarettes to video rentals, catering to the everyday needs of local residents. The rustic charm of the market, complete with picnic tables overlooking the water towards Mount Rainier, made it a popular spot for families to gather. However, as the pandemic took its toll, Al’s closed its doors, leaving many in the community longing for the connection they had lost.
Initially, Olsen and his family waited in hope that someone would take over the business. When that did not materialise, they felt compelled to step in. “When children grow up and start moving away, places that once connected the community begin to disappear. Someone had to intervene,” he explained. The family understood the significance of Al’s Market in maintaining those crucial ties within Olalla.
Engaging in this family-run endeavour has shifted Olsen’s role from author of crime thrillers to manager of a bustling market and pizza restaurant. His daughter Marta has taken the lead in running the store, supported by her husband Kyle and Olsen’s wife, Claudia, who manages everything from signage to the accounting. The weight of this new responsibility brings with it a stark contrast to Olsen’s writing career, where he often digs deep into the darker sides of humanity.
Olsen reflects on the profound stories shared by customers, revealing the emotional ties people have to the market. From a woman recently diagnosed with cancer who sought solace at her “happy place” to regular customers with extraordinary pasts, these interactions have illustrated the importance of personal connection. “We may be the only people some of our customers speak to in a day,” noted Olsen.
The diversity of their clientele is immense, ranging from a two-day-old infant to customers over a century old. The market hosts various groups, from sewing circles to Pokémon clubs, fostering an environment where people can come together beyond mere transactions. This community fabric has been strengthened, reaffirming the market’s status as a space where memories are created and shared.
Despite the joys of bringing people together, challenging incidents have also plagued the establishment. The family has faced a suspicious fire, governmental complaints, and even threats, a reminder of the complicated nature of running a small business. These experiences have reshaped their understanding of community and the responsibilities that come with it.
As a crime writer, Olsen is accustomed to delving into the darker aspects of life, but managing a shop has brought another layer of insight. His background has provided a unique perspective in understanding the stories people are willing to share. “I hear about crimes that have touched their lives, whether it’s their own experiences or those of loved ones,” he remarked. “It’s a different kind of storytelling.”
The decision to take over Al’s Market was not made lightly. The family has often pondered what might have happened had they not stepped in. “Every time we see a shuttered business, we see more than just a failed endeavour; we see an irreplaceable part of the community,” Olsen shared. This appreciation for small businesses arises from direct experiences, emphasising the commitment and dedication owners invest into their dreams.
Running a small business is not without its trials, and the Olsens are acutely aware of the sacrifices that come with it. The complexities of maintaining a thriving establishment are apparent as they navigate new challenges daily. Yet, in the face of adversity, they are determined to preserve the essence of the market that connects their community.
In a world increasingly dominated by impersonal transactions, Al’s Market has become a sanctuary for human connection. “We didn’t want to see it die. It would have felt like committing a crime against our community,” Olsen concluded, highlighting the value of local shops that foster relationships and unity amidst today’s fast-paced life.