About Burden's General Store
From humble beginnings to a thriving family business - serving St. Lunaire-Griquet since 1959
Humble Family Beginnings
The incredible journey of a family business that started with just $1,500
Graham & Valma Burden
The Founding Partnership
Graham and Valma Burden didn't just start a business in 1959 - they began a legacy. With unwavering determination and a shared vision, this couple transformed a modest $1,500 investment into the cornerstone of their community.
Their partnership wasn't just in business, but in life, working side by side in that tiny 10x20 foot "bunkhouse" to serve their neighbors and build something lasting for future generations.
The “Bunkhouse”
The tiny building was initially referred to as “the bunkhouse,” measuring just 10 feet by 20 feet - a modest start for what would become a community cornerstone.
Meager Budget
Graham started the business with a meager budget of just $1,500 to get the business up and running - proving that big dreams can start small.
Two-Person Team
Initially, Graham and his wife Valma were the only ones working in the business, handling every aspect of the store operations themselves.
When Graham Burden opened Burden's General Store in 1959, his vision was both simple and profound: to create a business that would support his family and allow them to stay in the community they cherished. What began in that tiny building has grown into something much greater than he could have imagined.
Eventually, the store relocated to a larger building, which provided a more convenient location and offered a greater selection of goods for customers. As their children got older, they joined their parents and began contributing in a variety of ways, transforming the business into the family enterprise we know today.
Family Legacy: Teamwork Defined
All nine children working together
The Burden Family
Today, what makes Burden's General Store truly special is that all nine of Graham's children work together in the family business. This unity creates an family bond that directly translates to the exceptional, personal service our customers experience.
Serving a community of approximately 5,000 residents in Northern Newfoundland, we provide everything from daily groceries to specialized building supplies, ensuring our neighbors have access to quality products close to home.
What you see in the photo above isn't just a family business - it's a living example of how shared values, mutual respect, and dedication to community can create something truly extraordinary. Each family member brings their unique strengths while working toward the common goal of serving our community with excellence.
Family Commitment
A rare achievement in family business - every family member actively contributes to our store's daily operations and success.
Community Recognition
Our commitment to exceptional service has earned us loyal customers and referrals across the Great Northern Peninsula.
Growing Success
Since 2011, we've been partnered with Orgill, and our business has grown each year since then. This partnership has helped us enhance our position in the marketplace.
Our Business Philosophy
What sets us apart in an increasingly competitive market
Serving Every Customer
“Every day, more contractors choose us because of our reliable inventory, knowledgeable staff, and problem-solving approach. We serve both professional contractors and DIY customers with equal dedication.”
Our business continues to thrive because everyone enjoys what they do, and we approach every challenge together.
Personal Touch & Quality
“To remain competitive, we continue to focus on what we can offer our customers - great products, great service - even small things like flexibility on delivery times for customers.”
We believe the service provided by an independent business is much better than big box stores, and our growing customer base proves it.