A Richmond, Virginia based grocer, Ellwood Thompson’s Local Market, was sold to Healthier Choices Management Corp., a Florida-based company that owns 15 health-focused grocery stores, reports Richmond Times-Dispatch. The price of the transaction was not disclosed.
The grocer is known for its selection of organic and local products. The buyer noted that customers will not notice a difference, as the brand and product selection will remain unchanged.
“I’m ready to retire and move on to something new,” said Ellwood Thompson’s owner Rick Hood. “This is an excellent opportunity for fresh ideas and perspectives, bringing a different kind of energy to the store.”
According to the president of Healthier Choices, Christopher Santi, the firm buys successful businesses and largely leaves them untouched. The firm often purchases stores owned by the same person for decades and markets that merchandise local products, according to the report.
“Ellwood Thompson’s fits that mold perfectly,” Santi said. “Having local vendors is a must.”
The location is in a highly competitive area, with a Fresh Market, Publix, and Kroger within walking distance from the store.
“Ellwood Thompson’s has become a warm, colorful, and welcoming place, reflective of our mission; to feed the soul of the community. We have and will continue to be Richmond’s leader in launching local products and supporting the amazing growing companies in and around Richmond,” wrote Hood on the company website. Full Story
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Image: Ellwood Thompson’s