Then and now: Natural Grocers, 67 years later

Natural Grocers Cofounder Margaret Isely stands outside the first brick-and-mortar store, circa 1958, with a baby.
Natural Grocers Cofounder Margaret Isely stands outside the first brick-and-mortar store, circa 1958, with a baby.
(Photo: Courtesy of Natural Grocers)

In 1955, T.V. dinners — born from frozen-food technology created for military in World War II — were all the rage, especially as more women worked outside the home.

Preservatives and additives were being marketed with “Mad Men” gusto.

Yet that’s when Margaret and Philip Isely founded Natural Grocers, knowing from first-hand experience that nutritional empowerment and healthy eating were critical to a vibrant, healthy lifestyle.

They went door-to-door in Golden, Colo., with nutrition books and samples of whole grain bread to share their knowledge with their community. 

Now it’s 67 years later, and Natural Grocers is still family-operated, growing to 163 stores in 21 states.The company celebrates its anniversary every August in honor of Margaret Isely's birthday.

For Natural Grocers’ 67th anniversary event August 18-20, customers can enjoy: 

  • Up to 60% off on 500-plus products throughout the store. 
  • $128,000 in prizes and giveaways, including a Tesla Model 3, or $47,000 cash.
  • Free frozen treats, collectible stickers, chocolate bars, limited-edition reusable shopping bags and more.

The retailer created a list of fun facts, called 67 Things You Didn't Know About Natural Grocers, including No. 9: The produce department was 100% organic before there was an official “organic” designation and remains 100% organic to this day.

Another fun fact: Automatic timed misters weren't added until 2010, so crews used to manually water the produce every 20 minutes.

 

 

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.