Baker’s reopens,ready for business

By Staff, 01/31/17 1:36 PM

PRESCOTT – At the end of December, Baker’s Best Stop closed.

This could have been a blow to Prescott’s economy had the business remained closed, but the owner, Wini Gupta, opened it back up in mid-January.

Baker’s has been a landmark in the community for 50 years. It’s been a gathering place for older gentlemen who tend to congregate there of a morning for coffee and to swap their opinions on the world’s situation, as well as talk about sports.

Gupta said the store closed due to the retirement of Larry Baker for health reasons. She said the business will be making some changes, both inside and out. First, it will be called Baker’s Quick Mart, and is one of several convenience stores Gupta owns in the area. Next, she said, it will become a company store and be branded, selling either Philips or Conoco gasoline. The business will also be getting new gas pumps.

The property will be cleaned up both inside and out, she continued, and plans are to add some type of chicken and/or pizza to the menu. In addition, Gupta said, the store will be increasing the products offered for customers. It will also continue being a location where patrons can purchase lottery tickets from the Arkansas Lottery, whether the tickets be scratch off or one of the other games.

The store’s hours will be from 4 a.m. until 9 p.m. seven-days-a-week. At this time Gupta is looking to hire more cashiers. Anyone interested can apply at Bakers.