For almost three decades, Greg Atchison has been a familiar and friendly face in the grocery business in Wausau, Wisconsin. His extensive career, spanning 28 years in customer service—including two decades at Festival Foods, formerly Trig’s, and eight years at County Market—is marked by an approach that extends beyond typical interactions, earning him a reputation for genuine dedication.
Jake Sischo, store director at Festival Foods, noted that customers immediately recognize Atchison upon entering the store. Sischo likened the experience to a popular television show, stating, “It’s almost like ‘Cheers.’ Instead of yelling ‘Norm,’ they walk in and they’re like ‘Greg! How’s it going?’” This immediate recognition highlights the deep connection Atchison has forged with shoppers over the years.
Atchison’s philosophy of service is rooted in a genuine enthusiasm for his work. He characterized his approach as therapeutic, emphasizing the importance of greeting, meeting, and seeing people. He believes that a happy and willing attitude to serve is palpable to customers, describing it as a “2-edge sword” where positive energy begets positive interactions. Customers attest to his consistent helpfulness; Dana Glaser, a Festival Foods customer, praised his perpetual smile and willingness to assist, even going so far as to retrieve items from the back and prepare them for customers.
His exceptional service led to him receiving the company’s all-star boomerang award, an honor specifically designed to recognize employees who cultivate customer loyalty. According to Sischo, the award is about encouraging guests to return and enjoy their shopping experience. Atchison was the second person at his store and among the first ten employees in the entire company to receive this prestigious recognition, underscoring the rarity and impact of his dedication.
Even in his early 70s, Atchison continues to work, though on a scaled-back schedule from full-time hours. He shared his perspective on retirement, noting that "full-time retirement is full-time work to find yourself busy," especially for those without hobbies. For Atchison, working remains a source of engagement and satisfaction, largely due to his passion for customer service. He encapsulated this sentiment by stating, “If you love what you do, it’s not work.”
Customers actively seek out Atchison during his shifts. Jerry Schroeder, another customer, observed Atchison's constant readiness to assist others and noted his cheerful disposition. Schroeder explained that Atchison's happiness and smile can brighten a customer's day, even after a bad one. This consistent positive presence makes him a valuable asset to the store and its patrons.
The leadership at Festival Foods recognizes Atchison’s value and commitment. Sischo confirmed that the store is prepared to accommodate Atchison’s continued employment for as long as he wishes to remain. This mutual appreciation speaks volumes about the impact Atchison has had on both his workplace and the community it serves. While the store has a standard 10-tile policy for greeting customers and offering assistance, Atchison habitually extends this range, often engaging customers from 20 or 30 tiles away, further demonstrating his proactive and heartfelt approach to service.