Exploring Life & Business with Vance Sharp of Oakland Grocery & Hardware LLC (Sharp’s Grocery & Hardware)

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vance Sharp.

Hi Vance, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My Journey at Oakland Grocery

I began my journey at Oakland Grocery in 2017 at the age of 17, when the business was still owned by my cousin. From the start, I envisioned owning the business one day, though it felt like a distant dream. Although I didn’t grow up in the industry, I always felt a connection to entrepreneurship, as my Grandpa, Curt Boice, owned several gas stations in Lancaster, Ohio. Even though I wasn’t around during that time, I cherished hearing his stories about his experiences.

Turning Dreams into Reality

Fast forward six years, and in September 2023, my dream finally became a reality! Despite the challenges, I made it happen. Upon taking over, I rebranded the store as “Sharp’s Grocery & Hardware” and initiated much-needed transformations for the business. By 2024, as sales began to rise, I reinvested in upgrades to modernize our operations, achieving a complete transformation of our main store.

Facing Setbacks

However, the fall of 2024 brought a significant setback when my HVAC system failed beyond repair, necessitating a complete replacement. Yet, we persevered! The year 2025 threw more curveballs my way, and I still feel their impact today. In spring 2025, I reassessed our situation, believing we had recovered from the HVAC setback, and I continued to pursue my vision for the business. This led me to begin the transformation of our Hardware section.

During this process, it seemed like everything that could go wrong did. Late spring saw me lose my primary supplier for our grocery section, which was out of my control. This setback diverted my attention from the Hardware Department transformation, delaying its reopening. Thankfully, other suppliers stepped up to help us maintain inventory, but this resulted in brand changes and the discontinuation of some items, leading to a decline in business.

By early summer 2025, my water softener system also failed, necessitating another complete replacement. At this point, I had to adjust my original plan for the Hardware Department based on what I could afford, and we finally reopened it. While some customers were disappointed, I communicated the situation to those who approached me and assured them that we would return to the original vision once we were back on track.

Progressing Through Challenges

Though there were numerous behind-the-scenes issues, we began to recover! We successfully completed a gas station facelift, revamped the parking lot, and more! Throughout this turmoil, I experienced significant stress and questioned my dream at times. However, we survived and emerged with “stronger roots.”

As we enter 2026, I am dedicated to continuing my recovery from the past year. My goal is to keep progressing with my business while supporting our community, which has stood by us through thick and thin!

We’ve been impressed with Oakland Grocery & Hardware LLC (Sharp’s Grocery & Hardware), but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Sharp’s Grocery & Hardware we are here for our customers! We carry everything from groceries, deli, frozen foods, fresh cut meats, produce, Sunoco Gas & Diesel, Ohio Lottery & much more. What I feel sets us apart from other convenience stores is our Home Town Feel! As our business has been family owned since 1954.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
While I can’t really say, what will happen in the next 5-10 years, after the journey we’ve already had. I’d like to say will continue to progress and grow our business! In hopes to add more products our customers are interested in.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sites.google.com/view/oaklandgrocery/home
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/Oak.Gro.Mall