If anyone were to tell Malcolm or Linda Cardy that one day they would be running a business in Missoula, Montana, they probably would have a hardy laugh at such a nonsensical idea. After all, both were from places far away: Malcolm was from London and Linda was from Chicago; “Missoula” wasn’t even in their vocabulary. Following their introduction to each other on a blind date in Switzerland, they married and had three children and resided in assorted places in Europe and later in Seattle.

It was their oldest child, Allison, who had brought Missoula to their attention. She wanted to and did attend the University of Montana’s journalism school. Four years later their son, Andrew, liked the idea of attending the UofM and did so - and then another four years later their daughter, Annike, pursued the same path as her siblings to the UofM. With their three children attending the UofM over the span of 12 years, the Cardys inevitably spent more than just a few moments in Missoula. And as such, Missoula’s attractiveness grew on them with each visit, as it does with so many folks.

“We were always coming to Missoula for visits and really got to love Missoula and the sorts of people that make a home here.” Malcolm said.

Later, Malcolm retired from his role as sales rep for Genie machines, and sought a business to run. That was when the Oil and Vinegar franchise came to mind. He and Linda went to one in Holland and were quite taken in by its uniqueness and its products. The whole concept of running an O&V business seemed to fit, and it indeed became their pursuit.

The next step was to obtain franchise rights. To begin, they needed a location and that’s why Missoula came to mind. Two of their children remained in Missoula after attendaning the UofM.

That, combined with their affinity for the town’s character, was enough to beckon them into seriously looking at Missoula for their store’s site. The business would require a place with plenty of foot traffic, and that’s why Southgate Mall came into play. They even had a specific store location at the mall in mind.

Apparently, to purchase an Oil and Vinegar franchise requires more than shelling out a little dough. The Netherland-based business sent out their CEO from Holland to Missoula to survey the proposed location. In fact, he visited Missoula three times before extending the franchise invitation to the Cardys.

Like most franchises, the Cardy’s Oil and Vinegar had to conform to a precise design and presentation, and if you were to venture into any other O&V store you’d find continuity.

In surveying the store’s interior, it’s easy to understand why O&V is set up the way it is; it’s inviting, intriguing, and a totally distinctive business. Upon entering O&V one cannot help but be drawn to the back wall. That’s the focal point of the store where the illuminated wall is decked out with 26 large decorative containers containing special bulk oil and vinegar products. The oils and vinegars come from the Mediterranean, South Africa or California.

O&V is happy to provide its customers with a sample of those oils and vinegars, and if a customer makes a purchase, the product will be poured into a glass bottle (in a size of their choosing, but most purchase it by a 10th of a liter). When the customer requires a refill they simply return their bottle to O&V where it is replaced by a fresh sanitized one.

Throughout the store are multiple displays of sauces. O&V understands the customer’s need to sample when they are contemplating a purchase. Sample cups of sauces are displayed with pieces of dipping bread nearby which provides a nifty way to “try before you buy.”

“People like to eat, to cook, and to enjoy different things. Oil and Vinegar has an experience for all of your senses…from what you smell when you come into our store to what you see…it’s different and not the usual store you find in a mall. That makes it very compelling.” Malcolm explained.

On occasion, O&V has guest chefs visit who prepare succulent dishes using the O&V products and finishing sauces. Recently one was sent from Massachusetts from a supplier (the chef has been there twice). The Mall was filled with a heavenly aroma that drew flocks to O&V’s doors.

Folks can even have their own chef come to their home to whip up some delectable appetizers and the like. Andrew Cardy enjoys going to homes where he can display his many talents as a professional cook.

Oil and Vinegar offers so much more than what its name suggests. The store stocks a wide variety of hard- to-find pastas, such as in Pozzo del Tre, a very long half-inch colorful noodle (translated as mother-in-law’s tongue). O&V stocks a wide range of mustards, cooking supplies, and the culinary list goes on and on!

What completes the store’s charm is not only do customers have the opportunity to exchange ideas and chat with Malcolm and Linda, but they can also visit with Andrew and his sister, Allison, who frequently assist in the store. All are very knowledgeable about their stock and are eager to share recipes, cooking hints and product recommendations.

To meet the Cardy family at Oil and Vinegar, go through Southgate Mall’s main doors, and proceed around the corner from Orange Julius. Their phone number is 549-7800 if you have questions or want to book Andrew for your next party.

Bon Appetite!

Contact info: Oil & Vinegar

www.oilvinegar.com

2901 Brooks St # D6 Missoula, MT 406- 549-7800