This grocery store employee makes sure every customer finds what they’re looking for

WAUSAU, Wis. (InvestigateTV) - For almost three decades, Greg Atchison has been a friendly face in the grocery business.

“It’s greeting people. Meeting people, seeing people, it’s therapeutic,” Atchison said.

Atchison has worked 28 years in customer service. Twenty years at Festival Foods, formerly Trig’s, and eight at County Market. His approach extends beyond typical customer interactions.

Jake Sischo, store director at Festival Foods, said customers recognize Atchison immediately when they enter the store.

“It’s almost like ‘Cheers.’ Instead of yelling ‘Norm,’ they walk in and they’re like ‘Greg! How’s it going?’” Sischo said.

Dana Glaser, a Festival Foods customer, said Atchison consistently provides helpful service.

“He just always has a smile. If you can’t find what you need he’ll go in the back and get it for you and wrap it up,” Glaser said.

Atchison said his approach centers on genuine enthusiasm for the work.

“Come to work. You’re happy to be here. You’re happy to serve people. People see that. They pick up on it. It’s a 2-edge sword,” Atchison said.

His service earned him the company’s all-star boomerang award, which recognizes employees who encourage customer loyalty.

“It’s about bringing the guest back. Doing something that will make sure the guest comes back and enjoys shopping with us. That is what Greg does,” Sischo said.

Atchison was the second person in the store to receive the award and among the first 10 in the company, according to Sischo.

Customer Jerry Schroeder said Atchison consistently helps other shoppers.

“Always helping somebody. See. He’s down there helping somebody now,” Schroeder said.

Now in his early 70’s, his work schedule has been scaled back from full-time hours.

“Full-time retirement is full-time work to find yourself busy. To keep yourself busy. Especially when you don’t have hobbies,” Atchison said.

Customers continue to seek him out during his shifts.

“Because he’s always so cheerful. You’ve had a bad day, come in, and he’s happy. Smiling,” Schroeder said.

Sischo said the store will accommodate Atchison’s continued employment.

“We will take him for as long as he wants to be here,” Sischo said.

Atchison said he plans to continue working because of his passion for customer service.

“If you love what you do, it’s not work. And I love doing this. I really do,” Atchison said.

Festival Foods has a 10-tile policy requiring employees to greet customers within 10 tiles and offer assistance. Atchison extends that range, greeting customers from 20 or 30 tiles away.