Blast From the Past–Bakersfield!

 

 

In honor of the 42nd Anniversary of the opening of the first Lassen’s, I thought I’d take you back almost 10 years to when we opened the Bakersfield store!  

And this was an ambitious project.  At approx. 17,000 square feet, this would be our largest store, and still is.

 

It takes a lot of imagination to envision a big, messy space as a warm and inviting store, but the Lassens think big!  There had been a lot of demolition of old stuff and a lot of clean-up when this picture was taken.

From inking the lease deal to opening a store takes many months, and the Bakersfield store was no exception.  

 

We involved lots of people to get this store opened, including a couple of sons. 

I asked them recently why they looked so grumpy in these pictures, and they replied, “Because we were grumpy!  It was like 120 degrees in that place!”  Sorry guys!

The original Mr. Lassen, Hilmar, was always up for a project.  In fact, projects were what kept him from getting grumpy!  He was still smiling through the heat!  He was 89 years old, but could still outwork 2 or 3 guys!

It seemed like all of the Bakersfield big-wigs attended our Grand Opening.  People kept saying, “Thank you so much for opening in our town!”  It was a wonderful reception.

 

The mayor came, and was very gracious as he met Hilmar and Oda. 

We were really happy with our first Bakersfield staff.  This photo doesn’t show the whole first crew, but today there are still a few who have worked for us for the full ten years! 

Oda and Hilmar tried out the new Deli–our first full-service Deli! 

Our supplement selection is extensive.  Oda was pleased to see that wall of vitamins and minerals and other nutritional supplements!  Today, we are able to purchase lots of locally grown produce and other items from farmers and producers in the Bakersfield area.  We bring those beautiful products to our stores, too.  There’s no picture of it, but we do all of our bulk packaging in our Bakersfield store as well.

 

Thank you Bakersfield, for welcoming us so warmly!  It’s been a terrific decade, caring about your health!

 

Don’t forget to come into Lassen’s this Saturday, July 20th, and enjoy our Anniversary Celebration!  There are lots of samples and raffle prizes and demos and sales and to enjoy!  Click here to see the Anniversary flier!

 

Love,

 

Lassen’s