Tommy Thompson, owner of Busy Bee Honey in Lexington, shows off his product to a Whole Foods representative Tuesday afternoon.
COLUMBIA (WACH) -- Whole Foods is looking for a few good growers.
The market wants to stock the shelves of a future store in Columbia with local products, so Whole Foods hosted an open house for area growers and sellers at City Roots Tuesday.
Business owners like Tommy Thompson jumped at the opportunity to show off his product. He owns Busy Bee Honey in Lexington. He hopes to expand his business by selling honey in the future store.
“This is what the small business owner needs,” said Thompson. “We’re looking for this.”
Several Whole Foods representatives were on hand at City Roots Tuesday to meet with local sellers. They talked with people who sell products like bread, soap, meat, and organic vegetables.
Whole Foods representative Darrah Horgan says selling local products is good for the company, consumers and the area economy.
“Our customers ask more and more where the food comes from, and when it’s from the local area, they tend to gravitate to it,” said Horgan.
After Tuesday’s meetings, Whole Foods will determine which products are a fit for the store.
The market is scheduled to open along Garners Ferry Road in the fall.
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