Every year, WholeFoods Magazine sets out to identify natural products retailers who are going above and beyond, serving their local communities and the greater good for people and the planet. With so many retailers contributing to the health of their communities and beyond, trying to select just one to spotlight is a challenge, and we appreciate the help we get from members of the natural products industry who answer our call for help and nominate standout stores.

Throughout the U.S., independent natural products retailers continue to focus on their communities despite intense pressures due to online and mass market competition, regulatory issues, supply chain challenges that lead to larger stores being given priority and the independents dealing with out of stocks, staffing issues, and more. Jay Jacobowitz, WholeFoods Magazine merchandising columnist as well as Founder and President of 

Retail Insights, has been interviewing and surveying independents to shine a light on the pain points so the rest of the industry can better support our retail colleagues. Please read his recent Merchandising Insights columns to gain key insights

This year, we received several nominations. Among them: Green Planet Grocery, which operates two locations in the Syracuse area and has been in business for 20 years. The industry member who nominated them said: “They represent an archetype of health food store that is slowly disappearing across the country. They are a true American small business. They deserve some recognition for their support of the natural products industry over the past two decades.” We agree, so we wanted to give them a special shoutout here.

Also nominated: Health Foods by Claudia in Toledo, OH. The nominator shared: “It is my great honor to nominate a health food retailer who is NOT part of a chain; rather, they are one of the thousands of independent health food stores across the U.S."

Another nominee was Cambridge Naturals, which has been chosen as WholeFoods Magazine 2024 Retailer of the Year! 

Founded in 1974 by Michael Kanter and Elizabeth Stagl, Cambridge Naturals has stayed true to its original mission: to provide the best choices in natural wellness products and to offer an amazing customer experience to the local community. Today, as the family-owned business marks 50 years and transitions to the second generation of family ownership with Emily Kanter, CEO and Co-Owner, Cambridge Naturals continues to shine. The team is committed to:

  • Fostering a more just, equitable and sustainable world, with a focus on partnering with businesses owned by women and historically marginalized folks.
  • Sourcing products locally, organically, and ethically via fair trade and direct trade channels.
  • Donating a portion of profits to social and environmental organizations that impact the local community.
  • Offering a curated selection of products including supplements and herbal medicine, clean body + beauty care, organic foods and beverages, bulk herbs and spices, and ethical lifestyle supplies (yoga mats, reusable containers, and more).
  • Striving to offer hundreds of products at affordable prices to serve the diverse community. 
  • Hosting classes + workshops.

In our September issue, learn more about Cambridge Naturals, including leadership insights, lessons learned the hard way, and the focus that makes the positive difference. Join us in honoring their efforts!