Village Market: A Wilton Institution Since 1935 Changes Hands

Outside the Village Market in Wilton Tuesday afternoon, Mike Picheco and Tim Dolnier beamed smiles at longtime customers who stopped to congratulate them on their newly purchased store. 

Picheco and Dolnier, who reached an agreement with the current owner of the market, Peter Keating, closed their deal on Monday. The warm sunny Tuesday afternoon appeared to bode well for the Village Market, which will retain its name. 

Dolnier said the store has been in Wilton since 1935. "We were originally located in the spot across the street, where CVS is now," he said.  

Dolnier, who hails from Wilton and whose mother Nancy Dolnier is vice president and general manager of the store, described having worked there himself in numerous different capacities over the course of 20 years. Most recently the younger Dolnier has served for three years as manager of deli, prepared foods and the bakery.

Picheco, who lives in Monroe, has been working for Village Market for 15 years and is currently the grocery, dairy and frozen foods manager.

Asked whether the pair, who will serve as co-presidents of the market, planned to retain all staff, Dolnier replied, "We have a great staff and that is what differentiates us from other stores. We have a strong, positive work environment for them."

"We have a unique, high-end product mix and a lot of support from the community," Dolnier said, elaborating on what makes the independent supermarket unique.

The support is a two-way street. Year after year, the market has helped dozens of local organizations and supported a variety of causes. In addition, the store throws its support behind one or two of the big projects in town each year.

Certainly the enthusiasm of Picheco and Dolnier is contagious. "We are so excited and proud, for ourselves and our families," said Dolnier. "We think this is going to be great for the community and the staff."

Village Market is located at 108 Old Ridgefield Rd in Wilton, Tel. (203) 762-7283