Buttrey Food & Drug

Buttrey Food & Drug was a chain of supermarkets and pharmacies that operated in the Northwestern and Rocky Mountain regions of the United States. Founded in 1896 in Havre, Montana by Frank Buttrey, the company expanded over the decades to serve various communities across Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, and other states. Buttrey Food & Drug was known for its commitment to providing a wide range of grocery items, fresh produce, and pharmacy services to its customers.

History[edit | edit source]

The origins of Buttrey Food & Drug trace back to 1896 when Frank Buttrey, an entrepreneur, opened the first store in Havre, Montana. Initially focusing on dry goods, the business quickly expanded into groceries and pharmaceuticals, responding to the growing needs of the local communities. Throughout the early to mid-20th century, Buttrey Food & Drug grew in prominence, becoming a well-known name in the retail sector of the Northwestern United States.

In the 1960s and 1970s, the company underwent significant expansion, opening new stores and acquiring smaller chains to increase its market presence. This period marked Buttrey Food & Drug as a key player in the regional supermarket and pharmacy industry.

However, by the 1990s, the retail landscape had changed dramatically, with larger national chains beginning to dominate the market. Facing increased competition, Buttrey Food & Drug was eventually acquired by Albertsons, Inc. in 1998. This acquisition marked the end of Buttrey Food & Drug as an independent company, though the Buttrey name continued to be used for some time on stores in the region.

Operations[edit | edit source]

Buttrey Food & Drug stores were designed to offer a comprehensive shopping experience, featuring a wide variety of food products, including fresh produce, bakery and deli items, as well as a full-service pharmacy. The stores were known for their emphasis on customer service and community involvement, often participating in local events and supporting regional suppliers.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Although Buttrey Food & Drug no longer operates as an independent entity, its legacy continues in the communities it once served. The Buttrey name is remembered for its contribution to the retail and pharmacy sectors in the Northwestern United States, and for its role in the development of the supermarket industry in the region.