How long has Rockhampton Health Foods
been operating?
Rocky Health Foods, formally known as
Healthy Life, has been in Stockland shopping
centre for over 30 years. In that time the
shop has continued to change & grow
seeing numerus owners and name changes.
In 2007 current owners Doug and Joy Irving
acquired the shop, with the last 12 months
trading as an independent store.
Who are your main types of customers,
young, elderly, professional, greenies, etc?
Our valued customers range from all
walks of life. Over the last 10 years I have
found that there is a growing awareness
about Health and Wellbeing, and therefore
we have a very diverse range of health
conscious people as our customers. From
the young health conscious, customers with
intolerances and following particular diets,
to loyal and regular customers we have had
for years.
What is it about your store that is distinctly
different from other health food stores?
We at Rocky Health Foods have a
professional and personal commitment
to assist our customers in improving their
quality of life. As we are solely a health food
store, we always endeavours to provide our
customers with a very broad range of health
and wellbeing products. We also have
qualified Health Practitioners for ongoing
support for any health concerns.
What are the changes in peoples buying
40 Complete Health
habits you have noticed over the past couple
of years?
We have noticed that our customers have
become increasingly more aware and
knowledgeable about their health. Our
number of regular customers is continuing
to grow every week. We believe that people
are dedicating more financial commitment to
their health.
What are the fastest moving categories
within your store?
Our bulk food range is very popular with
our customers as the price point saves
them money, and it is also very eco friendly
with the reduction of unneeded packaging
which our customers love. Our diffuser and
essential oil ranges have recently risen to
be one of our most popular categories, but
gut health, kombucha and kefir is popular as
well. The foundation of our store is vitamin
and mineral supplements which we provide
a great range of.
What made you decide to introduce the
natural health foods and wellness products
into your business?
Our Business is solely focused on providing
Health and Wellbeing products.
What trends do you predict over the next
twelve months?
I believe the Natural Health sector will
continue to expand over the next couple
of years. It is becoming more common for
GP’s and other medical professionals to
recommend natural alternatives to treat
illness, or supplement, medicinal treatments
and therapies. For example, Magnesium
which is a trace mineral is being used
for Heart Health. More natural lifestyle
approaches are being used in the wellbeing
and health of women with hormonal
conditions like Endometriosis. Worldwide
there is a greater appreciation for health.
What changes would you like to see occur
within the Natural Health and Wellness
sector?
I believe that there are still some Natural
Health Practitioners that you are unable
to claim a health care rebate. Whilst some
alternative therapies and treatments
are included as extras within our health
insurances, some are still not.
What excites you about working at
Rockhampton Health Foods?
I have worked in the industry for nearly
30 years, I love finding new and exciting
products to stock that helps our customers
to improve their health and quality of life.
I am always focused on providing our
customers with personalised assistance.
Rocky Health Foods is always a positive
place to work as our team are all great to
work with and have the same mind set.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Being able to assist people and see the
improvement in their health. Creating and
keeping friendships with our long term
customers and working with such a great
team!