Apple Shed opens today, expands to accommodate social distancing

Credit: Bill Lackey

Credit: Bill Lackey

Stevens Bakery & Orchard, located at 7344 Thackery Road in Springfield, is opening their Apple Shed today for the season with new guidelines to limit possible exposure to COVID-19.

“We will be taking precautions the best we’re able to, to provide a safe and clean environment for the customers,” Sharon Stevens, owner of Stevens Bakery & Orchard said.

The Apple Shed, a storefront for Stevens Bakery & Orchard, will have apples, honey, an assortment of jams and jellies, pure maple syrup and several different types of homemade pies for sale.

Due to a freeze in May, more than 50 percent of their apples were “wiped out,” Stevens said. This means that they will purchase apples from an apple orchard near Lake Erie to have a larger supply of apples in the Apple Shed.

“To make things easier this year we are not having so many different sizes of everything,” Stevens added.

She explained that last year they sold apples in four different size bags. This year they are offering apples in one size to help eliminate time spent in the storefront.

To accommodate more people in the Apple Shed, Stevens said that she and her husband, Chris, decided to expand the storefront. With social distancing guidelines, eight customers will be allowed in the Apple Shed at one time.

Stevens added that masks will be required and customers will not be allowed to eat or drink in the Apple Shed.

Stevens Bakery & Orchard is also encouraging pre-paid orders, Stevens said. Customers can call ahead and employees will have their items ready for curbside pickup at a designated day and time.

Stevens said they are excited to open the Apple Shed.

“We’re definitely looking forward to seeing some familiar faces,” Stevens added.

The Apple Shed will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information, search for Stevens Bakery & Orchard on Facebook or call 937-788-2873.

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