Pete is a born entrepreneur. At age 14, he saw opportunity in the sights, sounds and flavours of England’s busy outdoor food markets. Part theatrical sideshow, part business-savvy–Pete saw a perfect niche for his gregarious personality and produce know how. He learned how to stand out in a crowd by offering excellent quality, unique products and a fun, exciting shopping experience. He everyone by name, treated them like the good friends they were, and his customers never left Pete’s stall without knowing something new, trying something new, a full basket and a smile on their face.
Like all business adventurers, his early success encouraged him to push the boundaries and test the waters. He crossed the Atlantic in 1979, spending several years exploring culinary experiences all over the world. With a new global perspective he was ready to settle down and take Atlantic Canada by storm. He grew from a single retail outlet in New Brunswick in 1989, to one of Atlantic Canada’s best known and loved brands…Pete’s Frootique.
Pete launched in Nova Scotia in 1992. Today, the new and shortened brand: “Pete’s” is a multi-million dollar retail and wholesale operation with three locations: Bedford, Halifax and Wolfville, Nova Scotia. Whether it’s new business challenges, or displaying perfect produce, Pete keeps it fresh! The locations are open concept, with distinct destinations specializing in deli, produce, bakery, meats and fish and more. Each destination offers well-trained employees who know their customers by name and treat them like the good friends they are.
Pete relentlessly markets his brand as a media personality, hitting multiple touch points, while always educating his public. For over 12 years Pete appeared on the national television program, Midday, where he extolled the flavour and health virtues of exotic fruits and vegetables. His weekly newspaper column and books feature exciting recipes. His food adventure television series, The Food Hunter, aired internationally and enticed consumers from the comfort of their armchairs.
Pete launched a brand new adventure on July 1st, 2011. Following years of planning, Luckett Vineyards is open for business- bottling unique varieties of wine that thrive in Gaspereau Valley’s special maritime micro-climate. While the challenges and risks in this industry are many–this new product with only grow better with age! Cheers!