The Sangre de Cristo Market in Questa has been open and operating under owner Dominick Apodaca, grandson of the original owners, Gomersindo and Ofelia Martinez, since December of 2023. Apodaca has been hard at work since its opening, making upgrades and structural improvements to the store.
“I am taking the money I am earning from the store and reinvesting it right back, by fixing many things like the parking lot and refrigeration system. I am also starting to expand a bit and see how we can utilize the building across the way,” Apodaca said in an interview with the Questa del Rio News.
Overall, his goal is to see Questa have what it needs here in town, making trips to Taos less necessary over time. “Our people tell us what they want and like to see, so I want to work to create opportunities for businesses that can serve the people. I really want Questa to thrive, economically.”
Over the past year, Apodaca has grown in his ability to lead his staff of approximately seven employees. “Things go wrong, sometimes with orders or food or staff, and it’s important to remain cool, calm, and collected. Inside I may be worried, but on the outside, I want to show my staff I have it under control.” He says this skill is something he learned when he was drilling oil in Colorado prior to taking the leap into store ownership. “I learned that you need to show others you’re calm and confident to handle whatever is going on. That’s how you build that trust.”
While he has been running the store as the sole owner, he knows there is a wealth of information and experience available from his mom, who ran the store for many years while he was growing up. “My mom helps me understand how to forecast and gauge orders, staffing, and payroll. I am fortunate to have her and my stepdad’s guidance and help—they are a big reason I have been successful.”
Over the past year, the store has kept regular hours, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Apodoca is considering shifting this by an hour due to the slower winter months. “We are considering reducing by an hour during the winter, but I am not too sure we will go through with it. My priority is to be open when our people need us.”
Apodoca says the community has been very supportive of the grocery store and he is so grateful for that. “Without our people, I would be nothing. I need them as much as they need me, so I cannot express how grateful I am for their support and business.”
Apodaca remains committed to providing options for the community. Breakfast burritos are made fresh daily, and the deli area has a variety of sandwiches, salads, and other entrees for locals to pick up for a quick meal. “I am always looking for ways to diversify to give our people the best. That is my commitment, and I won’t stop working towards that.”
