Earth Origins: A neighborhood store

“With society becoming impersonal,” says Terry Grobhofer, Manager of Earth Origins, “we are determined to bring the neighborhood back.” Grobhofer has been the manager of the Bahia Vista store for over four years now, a natural progression from her position as part-time supplement clerk two years prior.

She explains what this looks like in practice. For one, each store gets to know the needs and desires of their customers. The Stickney point store caters to those specialty-foods-loving vacationers eager for a nice picnic or quick bite as they relax at the beach; while the Bahia Vista store stocks items that are more cost-effective for the local demographic of young middle-class families and the Amish community. This goes all the way down to types of cheese, and suits shoppers who will be buying large quantities of healthy sandwich slices for work and school lunches.

Earth Origins goes much further than this when it comes to caring about the community. Grobhofer's store participates in autism outreach and awareness, and placed a table outside the store educating people about the "truth in labeling" legislation; both these initiatives are a direct result of affected families who shop with them. Imagine that---your local food provider stepping up to the plate for your own cause!

Earth Origins' staff members model a great sense of community. With guiding principles such as "Respect, Mentorship, Commitment and Involvement," they hold a high ideal for themselves. This is revealed in the extensive training for new employees and the ease with which each member is encouraged to envision the role they would like to have over time. While Grobhofer's part-time position fit her schedule working with a holistic chiropractor and as a personal trainer, she quickly saw herself bringing all her talents fully on board.

Come out to get to know Earth Origins at this year’s Sarasota Naturally Festival on Nov. 10 in downtown Sarasota. You will get much more than fun food and product samples; you will get a taste of personal care, too! If you can’t wait until then, pinpoint the Earth Origins location nearest you at www.earthoriginsmarket.com.

This article is brought to you by:  
- Kimberly Braun, Empowerment Guru and Director of Sarasota Naturally and Celebrate Wellness Fest. Visit kimberlybraun.com for more info. 
- This Week In Sarasota, a media sponsor of Sarasota Naturally and Celebrate Wellness Fest.