Huckleberry’s approaches 15th anniversary

When Huckleberry’s Natural Market first opened in the winter of 1996, descriptors like “natural” and “organic” likely provoked images of Birkenstocks, granola, and hemp pants. At that time, Huckleberry’s was the only Spokane grocer to specialize in organic products, and the local food movement had not yet gone mainstream. Fifteen years later, the demand for local un-processed and chemical-free food is so widespread that closed-toe shoes, suits, and clean-shaven jawlines are rampant in the aisles of the neighborhood market, and most grocery stores and restaurants now feature organic products and local fare. Wine shop specialist Lou Anne Moxcey has been there since opening day. In fall 1996, Rosauers recruited her to move the Spokane Wine Company, the small wine shop that she part-owned, into the new South Hill grocery that Rosauers had recently purchased – originally called the Monroe Street Market. “I think the reason Rosauers approached us was because they wanted a store within a store, a wine shop that emphasized customer service and had knowledgeable people,” Moxcey remembers. “Plus, We had a base of loyal customers and we brought a lot of them with us.” General Manager Monica Hampton said customer camaraderie remains a source of pride. “We’re very community-focused and I think because of that we have extremely loyal customers.” She said there are patrons who come in every morning to grab coffee and eat breakfast at the bistro. “Our employees know our customers by name and vice versa,” says Hampton. Hampton has also been with the store since it opened, and believes that Huckleberry’s commitment to its customers - listening to and implementing feedback - has been crucial. Suggestions have led to free music every Saturday night, weekly wine tastings, and a made-to-order omelet, pasta, and sandwich bar. Moxcey said she constantly learns from her clientele and customers have driven the employees in every department to learn more about its merchandise and seek out the newest and best products from local producers and world-wide vendors. This isn’t just talk - during our interview, she abruptly cut-off questioning to help a waiting customer. When she returned, she apologized and explained that customers expect prompt personal service and that’s what she provides. Customers also expect variety and savings, Hampton says, which is why there’s a one-day-only meat sale today and a 20 percent off case sale Oct. 6-10. Customers who want a whole case of a particular item can find pre-order forms on the store’s web site or at the store. Also on the agenda for October is a focus on Fair Trade and gluten-free items. Bright labels identify which items are gluten-free, and Hampton says that employees in each department can help gluten-intolerant patrons find what they need. According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, 1 in 133 people are affected by celiac disease, an autoimmune disease that appears at any time in a person’s life, often with abdominal cramping, weight fluctuations and other digestion problems. When individuals with the disease eat gluten, the tiny hair-like projections in the small intestines that absorb nutrients from food are damaged. This prevents the body from effectively absorbing proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, which can lead to serious complications. “The only treatment is the lifelong adherence to the gluten-free diet,” states the Foundation. “When gluten is removed, the small intestine starts to heal and overall health improves.” This is precisely why Huckleberry’s is committed to helping those with the disease find tasty, nutritious food options. One of those customers is Shallan Knowles, a Down to Earth photo correspondent, who was recently diagnosed with celiac disease and authors glutenfreespokane.com, a blog which ranks area establishments for gluten-free friendliness. She calls Huckleberry’s a “local leader” in carrying and promoting healthy gluten-free items. “Many local restaurants and markets carry a few gluten-free options, but Huckleberry’s carries many and clearly labels them,” she said. “It’s great to see awareness about celiac disease getting more visibility in Spokane.” As for a big 15-year Anniversary celebration in November, Hampton is keeping mum about details, but promises something good…. maybe a really great sale? For the next 15 years, Hampton wants to continue emphasizing Huckleberry’s strengths, which she sees as working with local vendors and farmers, returning to the community through partnerships with Goodwill, the Women and Children’s Free Restaurant, and other charities, working to reduce the store’s impact on the environment, and staying responsive to loyal customers. “We’re just going to keep going that route,” she said. “When we first opened, everybody just thought - granola and Birkenstocks - and look at it now. We’re very proud.” Just to note, the store still sells an impressive selection of granola.