It seems as though the words “corporate chain store” have not been met with much favorable fanfare in Edgewater. It was only a little over a year ago that a corporate health chain was attracted to the area and then were rumored to be spreading false statements about their local competitors to gain memberships. It left a bad taste in many resident’s mouths and fueled the fire to anti-corporate attitudes.

But now comes news of just the opposite. The new Whole Foods at 6009 N. Broadway seems to be attempting to coexist with the local smaller grocers in order to give options to the neighborhood. A sign went up in its windows the other day saying, “Whole Foods opening Spring of 2015, Hungry for quality organics now? Visit our friends at True Nature Foods.”

Paula Companio, owner of True Nature Foods which is located across the street from Whole Foods was contacted by the corporate market with an idea to form a partnership to encourage customers to shop both grocers. Paula stated, “They seemed very interested in us succeeding because it was good for both businesses. Whole Foods putting the sign in their window was the first step.”

So what is to come? True Nature is in talks with Whole Foods to put some of their goods onto their shelves. They may also be invited to give live demonstrations within the store. It seems as though this could be one of the first such partnerships in the area with the corporation, and could inspire others to follow suit.

Longtime Edgewater resident True Nature Foods only sells organic products, many which come from local and sustainable farms. They have just opened their uber-healthy cafe and offer a variety of food cooperatives. Paula, who is also an activist for the organic movement said, “We want to make it work with Whole Foods and know we can increase exposure by working with them.”