Island Natural Markets began 22 years ago after Rhonda Lambert grew frustrated with the lack of healthy options available.
Now, along with business partner of 15 years, Casey Mitchell, they have sold their Nanaimo business to Pomme Natural Markets.
Pomme is based on Vancouver Island, with founders Ed Low, David Arnsdorf, Rasool Rayani and Craig Hermanson all making their homes in Victoria.
“We started with a passion for bringing healthy and organic food, produce and quality vitamins and supplements to the community,” Lambert said, in a press release. “We are excited to pass the torch to a young and dynamic group of Vancouver Island entrepreneurs who share our values and commitment to customer service.”
Pomme Natural Markets already has two locations in the Lower Mainland, including its new Davie Street store in Vancouver.
Island Natural Markets on Metral Drive will be the company’s third location and first store on Vancouver Island.
Hermanson, Pomme’s director of operations, says the company is eager to continue Island Natural’s success in Nanaimo.
“We are committed to our employees, communities, local vendors and a healthy lifestyle, and most importantly, to continuing Island Natural’s level of service and integrity,” Hermanson said.
Both Lambert and Mitchell will be assisting with the transition over the coming months, but are looking forward to enjoying their retirement from the business and spending time with family.
Arnsdorf says that the store will continue to operate under the Island Natural Markets banner for the time being, before an eventual transition to the Pomme name.
“We couldn’t be happier to add such an amazing team and brand to the Pomme family. Rhonda and Casey have done an incredible job of building Island Natural Markets with integrity and passion – values that are core to Pomme. We look forward to being careful stewards of the trust they have built in the community,” said Arnsdorf.
“Customers can expect business as usual and the same high-quality natural health products and foods,” said Mitchell.
