New owners hope to build on mission of health and wellness Nature’s Food Market has established

Nature’s Food Market has been a destination for individuals and families in the region who have taken responsibility for their health and wellness by choosing specific food and supplement products to support their healthy lifestyles.Much has changed for the store that got its start as a vitamin shop located in a restored chicken house in the 1970s. The growing store later moved to downtown Berlin where the business thrived in a community that embraced a natural lifestyle. In 2003, the store was purchased by Zedrick Clark who already had a background in vitamins, supplements and natural food store retail management. Clark nurtured the business until it literally outgrew the retail location and in 2011, moved to its current location on U.S. 62.Change is happening once again as James and John Troyer, of Troyer Country Market fame, become the newest owners of the natural food market that has been a mainstay in the village for nearly four decades thanks to the loyal customers that have allowed for expansion and improvement along the way.“Ten years ago when I bought the store the natural food movement wasn’t taken as seriously as it is today,” said Clark. “When Troyer’s showed an interest in buying the store that sent a good message in general about the demand for healthy food.”Clark is confident the Troyers will be good stewards of the business he, the staff and the customers have grown in the community. “It is our mission to build on what Nature’s Food Market has created,” said John Troyer. “They have done such a good job and we want to continue to uphold the core values they have established.”Nature’s Food Market offers an exceptional selection of high quality national brand and private label natural and organic products as well as supplements, fresh produce, bulk foods, dairy and meat. “We have a unique opportunity to work with local farmers and producers to include more of their products in the store,” said Jonathon Yoder, who serves as general manager. “We want to continue to provide a healthy alternative for shoppers in search of products that fit their healthy lifestyles.”Nature’s Food Market is different from most grocery stores in that the products available are minimally processed and contain no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. “Nature’s Food Market does separate itself from conventional grocery stores,” said James Troyer. “I have known Zedrick for a long time. He is such an icon in the community. He has influence in business, in farming and in the community. As the new owners we will continue to provide him a platform where he can share his ideas and expertise.”The Troyers see potential for growth at Nature’s Food Market. “We are learning from and listening to our customers,” said John Troyer. “In the short term customers won’t notice any changes but there is room for growth. We have a lot of ideas and we want to cater to our local customers.”An area where the customers will see growth is in the number of educational seminars and workshops presented. “This is an area we will continue to build on,” said James Troyer. “This was very important to Zedrick and he will play a role and even be a guest speaker at times.”Owning an operating Nature’s Food Market was a full-time job for Clark, who will take advantage of new opportunities to use education to help people discover the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. “The Troyers have an extreme amount of resources to take Nature’s Food Market to the next level,” said Clark. “I am going to miss the daily contact with the staff and customers but I have to let go of that in order to be able to move to my next level.”Nature’s Food Market is located at 4727 U.S. 62 at Berlin. For hours, special events or more information, call 330-893-2006.