Four generations. One mission. A grocery store built on family, faith, and service.

WOW!!! What a welcome!

Our CEO class had the joy of visiting Betty Ann Market in Mascoutah this morning, and from the moment we arrived we were met with big smiles, warm hospitality, and even a marquee in the produce section made just for us. It didn’t take long to realize—this is more than a grocery store, it’s family.

Store Director Mike Klein shared how Betty Ann Market goes beyond “customer service” to offer “family service.” From the way they care for employees to how they embrace their customers and community, family is truly at the heart of everything they do.

The story began in 1930, when Ben Norrenberns founded Norrenberns Meat Market in Albers, IL. His son Tom later joined him in the butcher shoppe, and by 1970s Tom and his wife, Betty Ann, had become owners of Tom’s Supermarkets—a full service grocer in Mascoutah. The business was then passed on to Tom’s sons, with expansion to several southwestern Illinois communities. Tom passed in 2014. In 2022, Tom’s grandson, Craig Norrenberns, carried the legacy forward by rebranding the store in honor of his grandmother, Betty Ann. Today, family photos line the walls, telling a story of faith, hard work, and tradition that continues to guide the business.

Mike, who has been with the Mascoutah store for more than 35 years, knows his customers by name and serves both inside and outside the store—whether stocking shelves, serving as President of the Mascoutah Chamber of Commerce, volunteering at his church, or spending meaningful time with his wife and children. His leadership reflects the mission of Betty Ann Market: to be the most joyful, prayerful, and thankful grocery company on Earth.

Our students were not only wowed by the history and the warm welcome but also by the business lessons Mike shared—from the realities of hidden costs and profit margins to the vision behind constant expansion and growth. We left Betty Ann Market inspired. Inspired by their story of four generations. Inspired by their faith. Inspired by their unwavering commitment to people.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to Betty Ann Market for welcoming us—and for being a founding investor in the Silver Creek Area CEO program. Mike Klein and Craig Norrenberns, your generosity, wisdom, and heart have left a lasting mark on us, and we are so grateful. ❤️