Business Backstory: West Street Wines & Spirits

As part of Simsbury Patch’s ”Business Backstory” feature, we “interviewed” Jim Pabish of West Street Wines & Spirits.

If you have a retail business in town, you too can be “interviewed” — just send us your answers to these questions, together with a picture we can publish with the article (the best pictures are of the owner doing something), and email it all to simsbury@patch.com.

How did you come up with the name?

Our business had been called “West Street Package Store” for around 50 years. When we came in we gave it a more contemporary twist!

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

We’re at the intersection of two busy state roads (Routes 167 and 309).We get lots of traffic from within and outside of town.

Briefly, what business are you in?

Retail wine, liquor and craft brews

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

The state has done major changes in the liquor laws over the last several years. In a tough economy, it has been difficult to anticipate what the Legislature feels is good for our industry and good for the state.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?

I’ve never really second guessed my decision, although sometimes it’s easier to control the rising costs of insurance and payroll in a firm with more people.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

I had worked at West Street Wines and Spirits on and off since my college days. This business has been around the longest among beverage shops in Simsbury, so I think I’ve done my best to improve the store, while putting my mark on its long history.

What’s the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?

Never second guess the importance of service. Customers who come here know that they will receive our personal attention always.

How do you deal with difficult customers?

We pride ourselves on being small enough to make decisions that will make a customer happy and return.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

We help out countless charities in town, from Rotary to sports events, golf tournaments and church events.
We often know our customers by name and we can reward their loyalty by giving to a number of causes which are important to them.

West Street Wines and Spirits

Owner: Jim Pabich
www.weststreetwine.com
Address: 131 West St., Simsbury

(860) 658-5482