We love our Opinel retailers! Learn about their business, how they discovered Opinel, why they brought Opinel into their store. They even share some local tips! This month's feature is Providence, RI-based Stock Culinary Goods with store owner, Jan.
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I’m a former writer, mother of three and food enthusiast. I started Stock after writing a series of guidebooks that focused solely on cities’ independent stores and restaurants. It impressed upon me that the character of a city is defined by its neighborhoods and its spirit can be viewed through the local businesses. For me a kitchen store was obvious, since that’s where I wanted to spend most of my time anyway.
How would you describe your store?
Stock is designed on the philosophy that all the best stuff happens in the kitchen – not just the food prep, but the socializing, the gathering, the sharing. We opened in 2012 as a response to the online movement, conceived as a place where people could engage and interact. Our other initiative was to blend local product with national & international brands, but always with an eye toward best in class. Over the years we’ve built a loyal following who visit Stock as a place not only to shop but sometimes just to socialize. We believe fiercely in the value of the independent neighborhood corner shop.
How did you hear about Opinel?
I’m a lifelong Francophile having taken my first French lesson when I was twelve – and my lessons are ongoing to this day. When the opportunity came to enroll our children in a bilingual French/English school here in Providence, we leapt at it. Once we were rubbing shoulders with genuine French people all the time, it wasn’t long before Opinel was mentioned as a beloved brand.
Why did you choose to carry Opinel?
The first compelling thing that drew me to Opinel was the use of Carbon steel blades. I think of carbon steel as a very French material and I love how the patina makes them more special over time. Once I was hooked on the original picnic knives, I started expanding our offerings. The price point and quality of the Opinel has always put it in a league of its own. And I very much respect that they carefully maintained their name & reputation, which not all French brands have done. So an Opinel is going to be good every time!
What do your customers like most about Opinel?
We have a lot of chef customers who buy the Picnic knives for themselves and their fellow kitchen staff. But they also will buy the Table Knife Sets. I’ve been into several local restaurants and seen the Olive Wood Table Knife in the roll-up, knowing it came from us! Our home cooks seem to gravitate toward the Parallele line, with its favorable price and clean appearance.
Do you have a favorite Opinel knife or tool?
Forever the No.08 Carbon!
What is your favorite thing to do in your city/town?
There are so many wonderful things to do in this ideal little city that I don’t know where to begin. Our food scene is much celebrated and Providence is so tremendously walkable that you could do a crawl and get amazing apps, dinner, drinks & dessert in four memorable stops in one evening. Or check out a Waterfire night, when the river in town is alight with brilliant bonfires. Pack a picnic basket, bring a charcuterie board, some Champagne and don’t forget your #8!
Stock Culinary Goods
756 Hope Street, Providence RI 02906
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