A similar store, the Lindeman Store, was already established on the same block. Though both stores sold groceries, along with groceries, Lindemans sold dry goods, while the Beers' Store sold hunting supplies and gear (everything from bullets to boots). Beers also provided seed to farmers for planting. Selling seeds was a big part of his business. In addition, George had a big glass candy counter that was full of many varieties of penny candy. Kids loved that, of course, and it kept them busy choosing a treat while their parents shopped. This was competition with Mrs. LaRue's candy shop, also nearby. (See the "Fresh" article from December 5, 2015). 

Barbara Johansen Johnson said, "When I was young, we could get single scoop ice cream cones at Mrs. LaRue's, but we could get double scoops at Mr. Beer's store for the same amount of money; one nickel."

George's son Jim Beers was a baby when his family moved to Lake Elmo. Jim's brother, Bud, became a bookkeeper, and Jim worked with his father in the store from the time he was small.

Edna (Meyer) Beers, who married Jim in 1946, says, "Jim's father, George, retired in 1955 and Jim retired from the store, too, at that time. They knew that the big supermarkets were coming in and the grocery business was changing. They decided it was time to do something else, Jim's father retired to Hudson, Wisconsin, while Jim went to work for the Post Office."