Rocky Singh was at a neighborhood gathering not too long ago in the northeastern edge of East Lansing. When the host asked if he could run out and get a few things, he said yes, not realizing how long it would take.
"We couldn't believe we had to drive five miles or more just to get some simple things," says Singh. "That's when I realized the need for a small store on that side of town."
Singh looked around at property in the Carriage Hills neighborhood and spotted a vacant storefront facing Lake Lansing Road. Within days, he put in a call to the leasing agent DTN Management and talked about his concept for a high-end party store that also carried basic convenience items.
By September 1, Singh was ready to open the doors to
On the Rocks Wine and Spirits at 3050 E. Lake Lansing Road. He had worked for several months to redo the space, putting in sleek shelving, dramatic energy efficient lighting, and a walk-in cooler faced with stone. Finishing touches of his unique décor included rusted metal accents from an old barn and a color scheme reminiscent of autumn.
While ritzy in style, On the Rocks is equally everyday in appeal. Singh carries up to 400 types of craft beers and more than 500 wines. He places a special emphasis on carrying Michigan products, but says he can order any specialty beer, wine or spirits someone is looking for. Customers can also sample craft beers, wines and spirits through scheduled in-store tastings.
"I see this as a great opportunity to bring a decent, high-end selection of wine and craft beer to this side of town," says Singh. "It's a great neighborhood, and there's a growing market for wine and spirits."
Customers to On the Rocks can run in for staples like bread, biscuits, cheese, bacon, lunchmeat, hotdogs, milk and cream cheese. Common over-the-counter medicines, dog and cat food, and a small line of fresh produce are also in the mix. Three employees work the floor of the 3,500-square foot store, but Singh may add more as business grows.
"The neighborhood has been very welcoming," he says. "It's really heartwarming. One couple even brought us a bouquet of flowers."
Source: Rocky Singh, Owner, On the Rocks Wine and Spirits
Writer: Ann Kammerer, Development News Editor
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.