The Williamsburg HomeTown Chamber presented the November Image Award to Kingstree IGA located at 522 East Main Street in Kingstree. The business is owned and operated by James Thompkins.  The Kingstree IGA is an independent business but also a partner store to W. Lee Flowers IGA located in Scranton.  
Originally from Charleston County, Mr. Thompkins began his career with IGA in Conway in 1981 as a meat cutter.   
Before his coming to Kingstree in 2006, Mr. Thompkins worked at the Greeleyville IGA for six years and most recently at the St. Stephen IGA store.  In 1983 Mr. Thompkins and his wife, Diana, began working together at IGA and have worked together ever since.
It is very evident by the positive comments that Thompkins is a devoted IGA associate.  When asked why IGA does not have a store card as other grocery stores now provide, Mr. Thompkins explained that all customers are welcome and offered the low prices that IGA offers weekly.  He said with other stores you must complete an application form and shop often to get the low price specials, but with IGA everyone gets the low price no matter how often or how seldom they shop at the store.  
Mr. Thompkins went on to say IGA tries to help the consumer in order for their shopping experience to be positive. Employees are well trained and available to take groceries out for those needing help.
IGA is well known for its quality meats and when asked why, Thompkins explained that the buyers at the warehouse look for the top meats at the very best price.  Thompkins also went on to say it’s the same with store brand items.  IGA has employees that visit private brand manufactures looking for the finest product for the best price.  He explained that they run test on vegetables, diapers and other products to make sure the quality is the absolute premium for a private label.  For example, IGA bread is made by the same company that makes Bunny and Nature Breads.
When asked how the economy has affected his business, Mr. Thompkins explained that business continues to be good, but families shop differently today than a few years back.  Store brands are more popular and less expensive cuts of meat are purchased more often. He said everyone is looking for the most food for the best buy.
In closing, Mr. Thompkins said he really appreciates the town of Kingstree and the local police department.  Police Chief Robert Ford has always been eager to assist with any safety issues and has always been available when needed.  Thompkins says he is very happy in Kingstree and invites everyone to come by his store.