Stronger together
By Ellen Wheeler
My first few months as the publisher of CNHR have been incredibly special. I’ve had the opportunity to visit industry people across Canada and connect face-to-face with those who make our natural health community so vibrant and resilient. These conversations and experiences have reminded me just how community-focused this industry truly is.
From store visits like Honey & Ginger in Nova Scotia to attending Nutters Everyday Naturals’ grand opening for its new Alberta office, I’m glad to be part of the energy and momentum shaping natural health retail today. I’ve also enjoyed connecting with retailers and suppliers at CHFA’s expanding Industry Night Out event in Halifax.
There have also been meaningful moments of reflection and celebration. In this issue of CNHR, we celebrate the retirement of Jon Janower, whose leadership and contributions have left a lasting mark on Choices Market and the natural health retail in Canada. I was also honoured to attend Purity Life’s celebration of Salus’ 90th anniversary and the HFN AGM, both of which served as important reminders of the longevity, passion, and purpose that continue to define this industry.
One theme that kept resurfacing in conversations was the importance of learning, adapting, and staying connected. It feels especially fitting for this issue’s features. Our coverage of The Healthy Bug highlights Sandi Wiest’s journey into ownership of store as an industry newcomer eager to learn from her employees. We also feature Natural Food Pantry, a business that has grown alongside its community for more than 40 years. I also had the opportunity to join Bruce Cole on his podcast, In Conversation With, where we delved into current industry trends, the critical role of knowledgeable retail staff in building trust and providing evidence-based guidance to consumers, and evolving leadership shaping the future of natural health in Canada.
This industry has always been about the people; it has been built and sustained through relationships, trust, care, and a shared commitment and passion for helping the natural health community thrive. Spending time with so many of you over the past few months has only reinforced how vital these connections are. I look forward to connecting with more of you in the months ahead.
As always, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me at ellen.wheeler@alive.com.