Independent, family-run grocers like Keeler's Bay Variety Store are the cornerstones of rural communities, and it’s wonderful to celebrate 50 years of dedication to the Green Mountain State. Vermont values always come back to the mission of neighbors helping neighbors, and that’s what makes a milestone like this so meaningful.

KBV is an active member of the Vermont Retail & Grocers Association, Associated Grocers of New England, Lake Champlain Islands Economic Development Corporation, and Champlain Islanders Developing Essential Resources (C.I.D.E.R.).

Keeler's Bay Variety is integral to the landscape and heartbeat of South Hero and Grand Isle County. From its decades long association with CIDER and the Champlain Islands Food Shelf, KBV exemplifies what it truly means to be neighbors helping neighbors.

In 2017 KBV was named Business of the Year by the Lake Champlain Islands Economic Development Corporation (LCIEDC). Their renowned customer service helped KBV to stand out, along with the family’s involvement in the community and its contributions to local nonprofits.

"Keeler’s Bay Variety is more than a store, it’s a community asset. The Horne family has shown relentless commitment to their community over their 50 years.  From event sponsorships to generous food and supply donations, KBV has been a shining example of a business that is invested in more than just the bottom line."

In 2007 Keeler’s Bay Variety Store was honored as Grocer of the Year at the Vermont Grocers Association Convention.

"The VRGA is thrilled to celebrate Keeler's Bay Variety's 50th anniversary. This milestone is a testament to the dedication and community spirit of Mark, Gail, and Wendy Horne, instilled in their practice since purchasing the store in 1974. The KBV crew, Gail especially, has been a force with the association for decades. Her commitment to ensuring representation of the independent grocers can still be recognized in our practices today. And the entire KBV crew’s exemplary commitment to providing essential goods and exceptional customer service has been unwavering as South Hero has grown. Congratulations to Gail, Mark, Wendy and the entire KBV team."

"Staying in business for 50 years is remarkable, but doing it on an island, in a harsh climate with a handful of people in the winter, it’s a miracle! KBV is a vital part of our life up here. When summer ends and all the food trucks are gone, when all the restaurants close and our population drops by two-thirds, KBV is open seven days a week, in wind and weather, serving our community. KBV transcends just a grocery store: it is a place to meet friends and neighbors, a place to learn about community events, and it is a place where the Salvation Army’s kettle gathers money to help the island’s less fortunate every holiday season. Gail and Mark Horne have been pillars of KBV and the community for five decades. Their involvement, generosity, and kindness to the community are a miracle too. Every charitable organization on our island is supported by KBV!"


The work you Gail and Wendy have put into your store is something to be very proud of, 50 years this year is how long you have been in business. Boy have you built that store into a small super market. You almost need a traffic cop to get in and out of the parking lot. I almost never see the store without 8-10 people in buying something. For you to have the same guy in the meat department for over 25 years just tells me you take care of the people that really take care of the customers. Good help is hard to find, any help is also hard to find.

Congratulations to the KBV family and team for their dedication to serving the Island community for half of a century.

KBV is always a big part of our lives each year for a month plus at Eagle Camp. We love the store and all the great and wonderful people who make KBV the special place that it is! Enjoy the celebration!