New Owners Will Keep Dillsboro IGA Open

By Mike Perleberg Photo provided. (Dillsboro, Ind.) – A staple business in Dillsboro will remain open after being sold to a new owner. The IGA grocery store on Main Street has been owned and operated since 1977 by Rick and Mary Fields. A community icon and town council member, Rick Fields died at age 67 in October of 2015. Town of Dillsboro executive assistant Susan Greco announced Tuesday that Mary Fields has sold the store to Kenny Patel and his brothers. Patel, his wife and two children will be moving from South Carolina to Dillsboro as he manages the grocery. Patel’s family owns other businesses in the tri-state area, said Greco. “The Dillsboro Community is truly excited about retaining a core business here in town,” said Greco. “As we all know, a town without a grocery store/gas station will lose a lot of other potential business.” Not only is the grocery remaining open, but the Patels may expand it. The deli could be expanded and there may be new conveniences such as a “coffee club”, fountain soft drinks, and a new fueling station. A customer appreciation event will be held at the Dillsboro IGA on Saturday, October 15 starting at 10:00 a.m. The town and store owners plan a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30. RELATED STORIES: Longtime Fields IGA Owner Passes Away