RUMFORD — Entrepreneur Derek Taber has opened his third business in town called The Essential Store at 142 Congress St., which he describes as having a general store feeling, offering a wide variety of merchandise and food.

Inside the 1,000-square-foot store, Taber said he has everything from bubble gum and Slinkys for kids to craft beer, bullets and grab-and-go food items for adults.

Taber said he asked people what they go out of town to get and he’s trying to bring it to them. That includes soaps, spices, sauces, teas, and a big hit was the frozen custard he brought in and sold out of quickly.

For now, Taber said he’s open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Taber also owns Hotel Rumford, whose kitchen is supplying salads and sandwiches, but he’s sourcing artisan breads and baked goods locally, in addition to coffee and local produce.

This story originally was published as part of “Gendron’s Seafood becomes Cantrell’s Seafood.” The Buzz offers quick hits about trending area business happenings. Have a Buzzable tip? Contact business writer Christopher Wheelock at 689-2817 or cwheelock@sunjournal.com