Nearly one year after breaking ground on what Greg Saltzman described as a 20-year dream, Whitetail Farms Farm Fresh Market opened its doors to customers in the greater-Olivet community. Saltzman, who has owned Whitetail Farms, LLC for the past 20 years always envisioned opening a meat market in the community. In the past year, though, his vision and his goals have expanded with the needs of the community.
“This is really for the community,” he said. “This is far more than what I had originally planned. I created a monster, and the monster grew.”
Saltzman said his initial thoughts were to offer fresh cuts of meat and possibly some fresh produce. The community’s loss of a grocery store, however, expanded his plans. Now, not only will Whitetail Farms Farm Fresh Market offer cuts of beef, pork and chicken, the 1,600-square foot market will offer a variety of fresh produce, bulk foods, dry goods, a deli and dairy products as well.
“I’m not trying to take on the big box stores,” Saltzman said. “I may not be the cheapest guy on the block, but I’m going to be competitive.”
Saltzman is banking on the freshness of his products and the quality meats he plans to sell. Though the market floor is 1,600- square feet, the entire building is 6,400 square feet, with a majority of it set up to process meat.
“I’m a meat man,” Saltzman said. “We’re going to have fresh meats, smoked meats, our famous sausages, grilling steaks and chops, fresh ground burger, all USDA Choice meat.”
Saltzman said the market will also feature everything to make the perfect spice blend or marinades. He said the market is a perfect place to get everything together for Memorial Day barbecues. He is also working through the process to be able to sell beer and wine.
The market, located at 4506 W. Butterfield Highway in Olivet, opened Friday, May 15 and is open Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.