Superlake in San Antonio Tlayacapan, Ajijic, Lake Chapala
I have been shopping at Superlake since we arrived in Mexico over 23 years ago. I have defended this supermarket for years as many thought it was too expensive.
I would explain patiently that you have the choice of buying imported or local items which vary in price considerably. For example: the imported Cheerios cost $169.00 pesos whereas the local Cheerios are $69.00 pesos.
When we first arrived many things that we needed were not available in Ajijic, Lake Chapala. I would go to the wonderful bi-lingual manager, Fransicco Montez (Pancho), and he would get whatever I needed on his next trip to Guadalajara. I did not have an iron or ironing board and later that week Pancho had purchased these items for me. I can give you a very long list of things he procured for me over the years and he handled the requests of the ex-pat community superbly as well as the needs of the Mexicans.
Basically, if Superlake did not have what you needed he would get it for you. The prices did fluctuate as the peso fluctuated but other than that I was never unhappy with the prices and I always had the choice to buy the local brand.
Pancho got pumpkins, squash and Christmas trees for us and would deliver them and set them up in your house.
I have been exceedingly happy with Pancho and Superlake for many years so you can imagine when I heard that Pancho had been fired by his uncle I was most unhappy.
Lately I have noticed recently some things missing such as kleenex, Kirkland tuna, old white cheddar etc.and I know this is only the beginning. I certainly hope I am wrong but I will be very surprised if anyone can manage Superlake better than Pancho. He was also loved by the staff and they are all “boot-faced” now that he is gone.
Whoever takes on this task has huge shoes to fill.
Rumor has it that Pancho is opening a Deli close to Bar Co. on the carretera. I will certainly frequent his new business but I secretly hope that they realize before it is too late that Superlake needs Pancho and so do we!
Superlake also has many of the Kirkland (Costco) brands which are are barely more expensive than they are in Guadalajara. I would happily pay the small amount to avoid a trip into the city, dealing with parking, stress and traffic.
His Pedegree dog food (kibble) was also $20.00 pesos less than Walmart.
Lets see how long this lasts without Pancho at the helm.
I wish Pancho well and much success but he will be seriously missed at Superlake.