After overseeing operations at stores in Campbell River and Tsawwassen, Andy Carter has taken over as the new manager at Thrifty Foods in Courtenay.

"Glad to be back in the upper Island community. Lots of fun up here," said Carter, who managed the Campbell River Thrifty Foods from 2006 to 2008, and the Tsawwassen store until about a week ago.

Carter, who hails from the Isle of Wight, moved to Canada in 1986. He has spent about about 17 years with Thrifty Foods, starting in Victoria.

"I'm an old master baker from Britain," said Carter, who ran businesses in his homeland and in Victoria before joining Thrifty Foods.

He finds the company appealing in terms of its values, support for staff and community involvement.

"I like the way the company is run, great morals and great business beliefs," he said. "It's a tough business but it's a good business. It's been a great company to work for."

While each store differs in terms of demographics, Carter said the work is the same.

"Customer service is our main priority, along with good products at fair prices .... We have a lot of regular shoppers, for sure. We have a pretty broad spectrum of customers."

Carter has been a member of Rotary clubs and chambers of commerce. He also belonged to the Business Improvement Association in Tsawwassen.

reporter@comoxvalleyrecord.com