Natural Foods Co-op of SLO changes name, moves to new location

The Natural Foods Co-op of San Luis Obispo is now operating under a new name and in a new location. SLO Natural Foods is now at 2494 Victoria Ave., a few blocks from the former location on Francis Street.

“It’s a bigger store and in a better location with better parking,” said Gwen Schmidt, general manager. “We have new products, and it’s a bigger space, and so we’re able to increase our product line. And we have better visibility.”

The decision to move had been discussed for some time as the co-op had need for additional space. At around 4,000 square feet, the new store, which employs nine people, is about three times the size of the old, Schmidt said, and the expanded square footage will allow the store to offer more produce.

A grand-opening celebration is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

The celebration will feature food, entertainment by Bob and Wendy, Matt Frakes and Kevin “Tex” Bennett, as well as giveaways. VertFoods will have samples for customers, and many other local food vendors will be there throughout the day, including Airen’s Confections, Coastal Peaks Coffee, Mama Ganache Chocolates, Joebella Coffee, SLO Fresh Catch, Central Coast Grown, Benefit Foods, Crucial Chocolate and Manzanita Manor Organics.

SLO Natural Foods will remain a member-owned cooperative, but anyone can shop there, Schmidt said.

The store is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Sunday hours will begin on a trial basis in late July. Annual memberships are $25, and member/owners receive additional offers and discounts. For more information, visit www.slonaturalfoods.com.

This story was originally published July 9, 2013 at 2:49 PM with the headline "Natural Foods Co-op of SLO changes name, moves to new location."