Windsor

How does an independent grocer stay afloat in a sea of big boxes? The answer is on Erie Street

La Stella supermarket has been a fixture on Erie Street since 1969.

Windsor Morning's Jonathan Pinto makes a pilgrimage to the iconic La Stella supermarket in Windsor, Ont.

A tour of the incredible pasta aisle at La Stella supermarket

8 years ago
Duration 1:57
La Stella

I've been shopping at La Stella supermarket since I moved to Windsor four years ago. It's one of my favourite places in the city.

La Stella has been a fixture of life on Erie Street since 1969. (Jonathan Pinto/CBC)

But the grocery industry in this city has changed significantly since La Stella opened 47 years ago. Windsor has changed a lot too.

Tap on the audio player to find out how this Erie Street institution stays competitive.

This week, Jonathan took us to one of his favourite places in the city: La Stella Supermarket.

La Stella supermarket is located at 948 Erie St. E. in Windsor, just east of Parent Avenue.

Take a look inside La Stella

La Stella has 90 metres of shelf space dedicated to pasta. It is constantly restocked and draws customers from as far as Cleveland and Colorado. (Jonathan Pinto/CBC)
A peek at La Stella's extensive butcher counter. (Jonathan Pinto/CBC)
Sausages are made in house too. (Jonathan Pinto/CBC)
La Stella excels at sourcing speciality products, such as this particular type of canned turnip from Italy. (Jonathan Pinto/CBC)
A selection of fresh produce. (Jonathan Pinto/CBC)
La Stella supermarket is located at 948 Erie St. E. in Windsor. (Jonathan Pinto/CBC)