Sharon Real Estate extends its heartfelt gratitude to Chuck Kelly and the enduring legacy of Craig’s Drug Store. Established in 1867, a mere two years post-Civil War, Craig’s Drug Store has become a cornerstone of the community. When I inquired about the secret to their impressive longevity, Chuck Kelly responded with a simple yet profound formula: “Hard Work & Dedication. The determination to make the business work and evolve with the times. We’ve transitioned from handwritten prescriptions to typewriters, then to computers, and now we utilize dispensers. We’ve faced adversity and adapted by introducing new product lines and creating new businesses within the business, such as Home Medical and respiratory services, which we have continually expanded. Never be complacent, never sit still. Always look for the next opportunity.” This ethos is not just a business strategy for Chuck; it is a life plan he adheres to daily.
The origins of Craig’s Drug Store trace back to 1867 when Charles P. Craig founded the apothecary on High Street in Cambridge before relocating it to Poplar Street. Grason Craig later joined the enterprise, managing it for many years. Earl Webster took over ownership during and after World War II. Charles Kelly, Chuck’s father, also served in World War II and subsequently attended pharmacy school, graduating in 1949. Ironically, he had once been a delivery boy for Craig’s, pedaling medicine to local residents on his bicycle. After completing his education, Mr. Kelly returned to Craig’s Drug Store, eventually purchasing a portion of the business. Chuck followed in his father’s footsteps, entering the pharmacy industry and ultimately becoming the sole owner. The family tradition flourished further as Chuck’s younger sister, Jennifer, joined the business for many years. Currently, his daughter, Jacquelyn Kelly, serves as a pharmacist, continuing the legacy of this highly successful enterprise.
Chuck acknowledges that navigating the current landscape has been challenging, particularly with insurance companies trying to control healthcare. In any business, profitability is crucial for success, and today’s climate demands diversification. When the business expanded from its 1,200-square-foot location on Poplar Street to a sprawling 6,000-square-foot space at its current site, Chuck found himself at the store at 1 a.m. before the grand opening, pondering, “How am I going to make this work?” The answer was diversification and the creation of multiple businesses within the business. From retail gifts to medical supplies and pharmacy services, Chuck has effectively utilized the space, crafting a business model resilient enough to thrive in any economy.
The medical supply segment of the business has seen remarkable growth since the early 2000s, extending its service area from the Chesapeake Bay to the Atlantic Ocean, covering Maryland, Delaware, and the surrounding shoreline. With five to six delivery trucks on the road, Craig’s Drug Store is well-equipped to serve its customers, as well as three hospice organizations and the local fire companies with their oxygen needs.
At Craig’s Drug Store, employees and customers are treated like family. With over 35 employees, many of whom have been with the company for decades, employee retention has never been an issue. Although the threat of larger corporate and chain stores looms, Craig’s has successfully maintained its market share. The level of service, trust, and ease of doing business has cultivated a loyal customer base. Chuck remarked, “The community has been extremely kind to us,” and added, “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else, and that’s part of the secret of it.”
Sharon Real Estate is profoundly grateful to Chuck Kelly for his unwavering commitment to Cambridge, Dorchester County, and beyond. Thank you for your invaluable contributions to our community and for allowing us to place our trust in you and your remarkable family.