Harps Still Going Strong By Opening Store #50

They compete against giants like Wal-Mart, but Harps Food Stores continues to hold its own by opening its 50th store. The Springdale location brings nearly 8 decades in the grocery business full circle. As soon as their doors opened Friday, the customers started to pile in. After 75 years in the business, amid stiff competition from supercenter giants, Harps Food Stores is doing something right. Kim Eskew, Harps Executive VP: "What we try to offer our customers to differentiate ourselves from Wal-Mart is quality, service, and the convenient locations." Number 50 is located off Highway 412 in Springdale. Ironically, the same city where the company was founded back in 1930 by Harvard and Floy Harp. And what remained true then still remains true today. Nova Jean Watson, Customer: "Less confusion, they`re very friendly, you can get in and get out and they help you with everything." Harps employees work diligently towards customer service, but they also get a piece of the pie. In 2001, the employee stock ownership plan bought all outstanding stock from the Harp family, becoming 100% employee owned. That has created loyalty. Eskew: "If you`re an owner and actually own stock in the place that you work, then why would you want to leave." In four years, company officials say the stock has nearly tripled. During an age when price is paramount, Harps is an anomaly. But quality and customer service keeps bringing customers back again and again. Watson: "I just prefer Harps." The company also has a philanthropic side. The Harps Charity Golf Classic has raised over $1 million in cash for various local charities. Harps operates stores in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.