Although the average American meal travels 1,500 miles from farm to plate, family-owned and -operated Kimberton Whole Foods offers hundreds of products from more than 200 local vendors, increasing the freshness and making a smaller carbon footprint. The grocery store has provided the community with locally sourced, natural and organic products for more than 30 years with locations in Collegeville, Douglassville, Downingtown, Kimberton, Malvern, Ottsville and Wyomissing.

Kimberton Whole Foods sells organic produce, locally raised meat and dairy products, specialty ingredients, pantry staples, made-from-scratch grab-and-go foods, eco-friendly household cleaning products, supplements and all-natural body care. There is also a wide variety of allergen-friendly, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options.

Terry and Pat Brett owned a farm store in Chester County in 1986 selling organic yogurt made onsite at what is now the biodynamic dairy Seven Stars Farm. Kimberton Whole Foods is now a multigenerational family business honored for ethical business leadership and meaningful contribution to regional sustainable agriculture.

Terry Brett, now CEO, says, “Our mission has always been to serve as a community market. It has been our longstanding belief that in order to create meaningful, lasting success in business and in life, you must first act and serve in your local community.”

The company also contributes to a variety of nonprofits that prioritize sustainable agriculture, organic food systems, environmental issues, conservation, local arts and culture and philanthropic services through their Rounding Up at the Register program, corporate sponsorships and community outreach. He advises, “Rounding Up at the Register is just another extension of our mission. The beauty of this program is seeing how our customers have embraced the opportunity to give back to their communities, as well.”

Pat Brett shares, “With just a few ‘round up’ pennies at a time, we've been able to send our united support to so many varied and deserving causes and groups. I am so very grateful for our thoughtful customers!”

For many of its local vendors, Kimberton Whole Foods manages the entire product distribution process, allowing them to make one drop-off at the distribution center where goods are routed to their seven area markets. Besides saving time, this method cuts down on the carbon footprint created by trucks delivering to the same locations.

By buying and selling local products, Kimberton Whole Foods is making a direct investment into the local economy. Customers can find the total number of dollars spent on local products at the bottom of the receipt. Studies have shown a multiplier effect of buying local. Kimberton fuels other local businesses and their employees, which also increases spending within the community.