Few changes at store; third Luray business for Warren County owners
By Randy Arrington
LURAY, June 6 — Tom and Sonya Wilkins first came to Luray in 2014 when they took advantage of the Town’s Hub Zone status and opened Valley Administrative Services. When COVID hit six years later, they opened a package and parcel service in the same building along the Hawksbill Creek called the Luray Postal Business Hub. Now, they are opening their third business in the same block of Downtown Luray.
“We’ve been bragging about this town for a while now,” Tom told a crowd gathered at his newest business on June 6. “We’ve always seen value in being here in Luray.”
In January, the Warren County couple that resides near Front Royal took over operations of Appalachian Trail Outfitters from Jack and Gigi Foster. Earlier this month, the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting to acknowledge the new owners, mark the store’s reopening, and celebrate their continued investment in Downtown Luray.
“Thank you so much for keeping the store going… we are lucky to have two people in the community that saw the importance of keeping a store like this open,” said Chamber President Gina Hilliard. “You guys have been a tremendous asset for locals and visitors alike.”
The Rx logo is still embodied in the brick outside to note the building’s history as a pharmacy. More recently, it took on the life of an outfitters two decades ago under Gary and Linda Drum, who eventually sold the business to the Fosters. From thru-hikers tackling the nearby Appalachian Trail through Shenandoah National Park, to locals hunting in the George Washington National Forest or visitors floating the bends of the fabled Shenandoah River, there’s plenty for everyone at ATO.
“The Town is so happy that this place is still here,” said Luray’s Vice Mayor Ron Vickers.
“I’m glad to have it stay here,” echoed Luray Councilman Jason Pettit.
It was one year ago this month that county officials proposed turning the corner retail space along Main Street into the Page Valley Cultural Center and Business Hub — effectively moving the county’s Visitors Center one block north from its current location at the former train depot. The plan was later abandoned due to public resistance.
“I’m so happy you see value in this town and this county to put more time and investment here,” District 2 Supervisor Allen Louderback told the Wilkins on June 6. “It’s important to have [this type of business] here.”
The new owners don’t plan to change much. The store’s interior has the same look and offers many of the same outdoor products as before, with some new additions. All types of outdoor apparel, camping gear, footwear, trail guides and more are awaiting outdoor enthusiasts at 2 West Main Street in Downtown Luray.
“Thank you for tolerating all my begging,” said Jackie Wood, Program Director for the Luray Downtown Initiative. “The buzz is on the street and I’m hearing a lot of compliments.”
The Wilkins actually took over ATO in late 2024, but began officialy operating the store in January. For Tom and Sonya (and their daughter), they welcome the opportunity to serve as ambassadors of the Page Valley to the many visitors that will frequent their downtown store.
“We can introduce them to Luray, and that’s really fun,” Tom told the crowd earlier this month. “For us, it’s been a joy to represent Luray and be part of this community.”
To learn more about Appalachian Trail Outfitters, CLICK HERE.
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