Natural Grocers opens to long lines in downtown Walla Walla

A line stretched down the block and around the corner as Natural Grocers, a health foods store specializing in organic options, opened its doors in downtown Walla Walla on Wednesday, May 20.

Brant Grubb, a marketing director for Natural Grocers, said about 400 people were waiting at the front door when the store opened at 8:27 a.m. - unusual opening and closing times are a staple of the chain - and the store had reached about 1,000 customers through the doors by 1:30 p.m.

At about 9 a.m. the line for the checkout zigzagged up and down five store aisles.

"It's a little higher than what we were expecting, to be honest," Grubb said. "Every area is different, so it's hard to tell. All we have to go on is the location of the immediate store. So, we've been very pleased."

The store had rewards for people who got up early to be among the first through the doors, such as gift cards in varying amounts.

"I met the (grand prize) $500 gift card winner, which is always exciting," Grubb said. "He was really excited. Then we gave away 800 bags and 500 alpaca drawstring backpacks."

Before opening, the store made a $2,500 donation to the Blue Mountain Action Council to support its food bank.

Grubb was in town from Lakewood, Colorado, for the grand opening. He arrived Sunday to start work getting everyone ready for the opening.

On Monday, May, 18, the crew was setting up the store and stocking shelves. In the back, a group of employees were taking part in a product knowledge training session led by a nutritional health coach.

On Tuesday, May, 19, family members of the of the crew as well community leaders and business owners were invited to shop a day early at a VIP celebration.

And finally, on Wednesday, the store opened to the general public.

While there is no shortage of grocery stores in Walla Walla, Natural Foods spokesperson Katie Macarelli said in March that the store will bring options to the Valley that are not available at other stores.

"We are the only large grocery store chain to offer 100% certified organic produce, a big deal when it comes to synthetic pesticides, soil health, nutrient density, etc.," she said. "We proudly offer 100% pasture-based dairy products and free-range or better eggs, ensuring animals are outdoors on pasture for their well-being. We carry 100% humanely and sustainably raised meats."

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