Millington, Tenn. –A nearly century-old general store that megastar and Millington native Justin Timberlake put on the map is on the market.
The Shelby Forest General Store, located less than 20 miles from downtown Memphis, opened its doors in 1934 during the Great Depression.
Doug and Kristin Ammons bought the store in 2003, and since then, it has become a popular tourist attraction known for its rustic charm, cheeseburgers, and famous customers like JT and Al Green.
“Twenty years ago, tourism was maybe 10% of our business; five years ago, tourism was easily 50% of our business. Thank you, Justin Timberlake,” said Ammons.” He’s filmed three or four different TV specials here since we’ve been here.”
Ammons said COVID was rough, but they survived, and the business is booming. Now, he said, it’s time to pass the reins on to somebody else.
“Oh, I have to because I’m not zero to sixty in two seconds anymore,” said Ammon. “I’m not whining. It’s not like, ‘Oh my God, we’re burned out and frustrated, and we hate this.’ We are so blessed.”
Ammons is selling the store, its contents, and secret recipes for $1 million. Buyers also have the option to purchase the house and property behind the store.
Ammons hopes someone will preserve the authentic piece of Americana that has become a global brand.
“Candidly, I’m going to tell you we are particular about who we would afford the privilege of trying to slide into our shoes and have half as much fun as we’ve had because this has been a blessing,” said Ammons. “But at the end of the day, I can be as particular as I want.”
The Shelby Forest General Store is right next to Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park and is open seven days a week.
Friday afternoon, the business was full of nearby campers, out-of-town guests, and locals. A Texas couple drove three hours out of their way to stop at the store and see the Ammons.
Ammons said the thing he will miss most about his little store is the people.
“The fulfillment and the passion that this store drives in both my wife and both my wife. That quiet sense of gratification that has nothing to do with a dollar bill. It has to do with preserving this very pertinent piece of yesteryear and helping people,” Ammons said.
Justin Timberlake attended E.E. Jeter Elementary, right across the street from the Shelby Forest General Store. He used to go there after school, visits it when he’s in town, and even included the store in his book. There is no word on whether the pop singer is interested in the business.
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“There aren’t any more of these stores, and there’s a big long list of reasons why,” Ammons said. “Just because there aren’t any more of these stores doesn’t diminish the value and the purpose and the role that this old store plays in the social fabric of what’s going on in the world today.”
For more on the sale of Shelby Forest General Store, click here.
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