In 2013, an unassuming new deli opened its doors nine miles southeast of Mt. Pleasant in the small village of Shepherd. The operation quickly became a staple, known especially for its hand-tossed pizzas and specialty sub sandwiches. Last summer, Mitchell’s Gourmet Deli opened a second location on East Remus Rd. in Mt. Pleasant, nearly tripling its number of employees. Rachel Buckley, general manager of the new Mt. Pleasant Mitchell’s Gourmet Deli and Market, has been with the company since the very beginning.
“Many people are not aware that we do much more than just sandwiches and pizzas,” Buckley pointed out. In fact, Mitchell’s offers lettuce wraps, salads, wings, catering, gluten free bread and pizza options, and a wide selection of meats and cheeses. Where this deli really shines is its Mitchell Made line of gourmet chocolates and confections. The impressive array of handmade treats includes a variety of artfully decorated cake pops, fresh caramel puffcorn, cashew caramel clusters, “Schmuckeyes”, chocolate covered pretzel rods, “Betterfingers”, and much more.
The deli’s handcrafted sweets and other unique Mitchell’s fare are available for purchase individually or packaged in custom gift baskets all year round. Customers who order a gift basket have the option of either choosing the specific items in their basket or providing an overall theme and leaving the details to the professionals. These themed gift baskets are frequently donated to various auctions and fundraisers throughout the Mt. Pleasant community. Mitchell’s also provides free pizza for local school functions on a regular basis. “Mitchell’s Deli does a great job of supporting both the Shepherd and Mt. pleasant communities,” Buckley proudly reported.
Mitchell’s has become a local fan favorite on social media, creating the feel of a personal connection by often posting short introductions to staff members and regular customers alongside special menu items, sales, and giveaways. Mouthwatering photos of irresistible fresh baked goods and seasonal items, like Valentine’s Day heart shaped pizzas, are shared nearly daily. Online messages and comments are valued, acknowledged, and quickly responded to, which is an aspect of customer service many small business still miss the mark on.
When it comes to competing with chain stores and restaurants and their low prices, Mitchell’s gives credit to this highly individualized approach to customer service. “The mission for the company is to create an environment filled with fun and sincere gratitude to our customers,” Buckley explained, “Mitchell’s wants all customers to feel like family when they walk through the doors! We want customers to know we are giving them the best we have and show them that we are truly grateful for their support.” The rapid success this growing business continues to enjoy goes to show that their efforts have in no way gone unnoticed by the Mt. Pleasant community.
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