Your one-stop shop for all your general needs … and more!
By Jillian Chandler
First opened back in 1892, Naples General Store was the first retail business in Boundary County. Today, nearly 130 years later, current owners Chad and Laura Kimball are continuing to offer the community a true general store providing a wide variety of goods.
At Naples General Store, you can find all your needs from gas, automotive oil, propane, hardware and plumbing to groceries, convenience store goods (soda, beer, snacks), full-service espresso (using locally roasted, fair-trade and organic coffee by Red Rooster Coffee Co.), hot soups made daily during the fall and winter months, and hard ice cream with homemade waffle cones. If you’re in search of fishing supplies or RV and camping gear, they’ve got you covered. They are also an Idaho Fish & Game vendor and are authorized to sell licenses and tags. And … there’s a post office inside the store as well!
Laura and Chad are both third generation born and raised Boundary County residents. Though both left after high school, they returned home in 2007 to be closer to their families—and to raise their own family.
Laura, who has found herself working in customer service for as long as she can remember, and has a background in business management, fell in love with the history of the old store and saw its potential. In 2009, when the opportunity presented itself, she and Chad decided to purchase the property. “The timing was just right for us,” smiles Laura. “We were done having kids and wanted to work for ourselves in a business that would allow us to serve the community we live in, interact with people and have some opportunity for growth.”
The century-old building still showcases its original hardwood flooring, reflecting signs of the time, and there is an original built-in sliding wood-door beer cooler. “We have tried to keep the original feel of the old store but offer modern amenities,” affirms Laura.
The couple enjoys the interactions they are able to make with their employees and people within their community and consider them an extension of their family. “We have formed great bonds with our staff and customers that make owning the store and coming to work a true pleasure that we actually look forward to,” Laura smiles.
When it comes to the success of the store since taking ownership, the Kimballs credit hard work, dedicated employees Dustin Solt, Leah Driver and Heidi Invernon, and loyal customers. “From a young age, good work ethic was instilled in both of us by our parents,” shares Laura. “Undoubtedly, we wouldn’t be successful without the incredible hard work from our amazing staff over the years, and ultimately, the customers who keep showing up every day, keeping us in business and affording us the ability to keep our staff employed.”
The Kimballs are grateful to live in Boundary County and to be part of the local business community. They also find time in their busy schedule to volunteer their time in the community they love. Chad is a South Boundary Fire District commission (volunteer position), while Laura has coached and continues to sponsor several youth sports programs through Parks & Recreation over the years. Dustin is a volunteer South Boundary fireman, and Leah served for Boundary County Search & Rescue.
“We would all like to extend a huge thank you to our customers for their friendship, comradery and business over the years,” smiles Laura. “We couldn’t keep doing what we do without them; we truly do have the very best customers!”
Naples General Store is open seven days a week. Laura and Chad invite you to stop by, shop, and take in a bit of Boundary County’s history.
Naples General Store
517 Deep Creek Loop
Naples, Idaho 83847
208.267.2947