Some independent convenience-store retailers inherited their stores from family and ended up with a new career, while others formulated a plan to put their industry background to good use to open a store. No matter how these retailers ended up in their positions, one thing remains common among them all—dedication and excitement in running a small-format store for their community.
After relocating to Kentucky’s horse country with their son several years ago, Debbie and Joe Morris acquired Silver Streak Market and restaurant in Lexington.
“We live about 1 mile from the store, where we own a horse farm near Keeneland Racetrack,” Debbie Morris said. “I want [my son John] to carry on the business someday.”
The Morris’s went all in to revitalize a 1,200-square-foot store with one multi-pump dispenser by painting, deep cleaning and hanging barn board on walls to provide a rustic touch. They also hired a local artist to paint a horse mural on the side of the building. Another immediate investment—inspired by Morris’ son, John, who is paralyzed—was to install handicap ramps.
The store is a place Debbie Morris hopes can foster community.
“Buying Silver Steak was personal,” she said. “I grew up with a neighborhood store nearby, where people would gather. I felt a tug to get into the business,” said Morris.
Debbie Morris makes honey on-site, and people come from a distance to buy it, she said. She also sells unique craft items, like Mexican boots and horse racing paraphernalia.
Debbie and Joe Morris are in the process of converting a retired horse trailer to a quasi-food truck.
“Buying Silver Steak was personal,” she said. “I grew up with a neighborhood store nearby, where people would gather. I felt a tug to get into the business.” —Debbie Morris, Silver Streak Market
“The restaurant opens at 10 a.m., so we decided we were missing an opportunity between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. to serve breakfast foods and coffee,” said Morris, who has owned Silver Streak since 2020.
She aims to open the food trailer in October, in time for the Keeneland horserace that draws people into the area.
For a decade, Morris wrote a column for the Lexington Herald-Leader called the “Fru-Gal,” where she taught people how to shop wisely.
“I also had a regular TV appearance on WKYT’s (Lexington) morning program that offered advice on prudent spending. I’ve always worked hard to stretch a budget. Since taking over Silver Streak, inventory management is a key part of the operation,” she said.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.