We’re honored to share that AJs Market and Ice Cream has been recognized with the Outstanding Independent Award by the C-Store Industry. This prestigious award is given to only 20 independent convenience stores across the entire country and we’re thrilled to see Downtown Pensacola on that list.
The new program celebrates the industry’s single store owners and small operators. These awards were created to celebrate the tenacity and perseveranceofindependent operators and recognize a select few single store owners and small chains (2-20 stores) that are making a big impact in the industry despite their smaller size and more limited resources.
Nominations were submitted to CS News by C Store industry retailers, distributors and suppliers. Nominators were asked to describe how the business is unique and stands out in its market, in what ways the retailer delivers exceptional customer service and embraces innovation, and how the operator contributes to the betterment of their community, among other attributes.
Owned by the husband and wife team of Alan Mandel and Judy Moldovanand, AJ’s Market & Ice Cream at Southtowne is “a true small-business community gem” and a “gathering spot for visitors, residents and local business employees in downtown Pensacola, according to its nominators.
Located on the street level of the Southtowne Residential Community, AJ’s was found to provide the area with traditional soda fountain-style ice cream, while also stocking essential convenience items, soft drinks, beer and wine, snacks, salads, freshly made sandwiches, gourmet appetizers, local products and more. Along with praising its inventory, AJ’s nominators also pointed to the store’s “fantastic aesthetic and vibe,” especially the old-fashioned yet modern black-and-white checked floor complemented by turquoise bistro-style seating allow customers to enjoy the beautiful, beachy downtown area.
The owners are often onsite and, along with their kind and helpful team, offer a sense of charm, warmth and belonging to customers who visit from near and far. They support the local community and are constantly looking for ways to give back. AJ’s contributes a percentage of its sales each month to the local public schools through the Escambia county Public Schools Foundation. The family-owned business also has provided coupons for thousands of free scoops of ice cream, and hosted fundraisers to support the county’s students and teachers.
“In this world of large corporate chains owning everything, we wanted to keep the “Mom and Pop Shop” alive,” said Alan Mandel. “Judy and I retired for a number of years after decades in unrelated businesses. One day we turned to each other and said ‘Now What?’ Well, we were living in Downtown Pensacola at the Brand New Southtowne Residential community, above a group of potential retail shops and we saw a great opportunity and a need.”
The shop is going on 5 years in business and they couldn’t be more pleased with their journey.
“We took a leap in what turned out to be one of the greatest decisions of our life. It is now going on 5 years and our little European Bodega/Hallmark movie general store/Ice Cream Parlor is a success. Success- due to an incredibly dedicated staff and a very supportive community.” — Alan Mandel
