Bristol’s Wild Oats celebrates 45 years

Industry News

Oct 6

The Wild Oats team outside the store with a table of baked goods.

Independent natural and organic retailer Wild Oats in Bristol marked 45 years in business with a community celebration.

Bringing together customers, local businesses and the team behind the store, the anniversary event took place on Friday 11 September, 45 years after Mike and Loes Abrahams founded Wild Oats in 1981.

Writing on its blog, owners said the morning was an opportunity to celebrate not just the anniversary, but the community that has grown around the store. “Since opening our doors in 1981, so much has changed, but Wild Oats has always been about more than what's on our shelves. Friday was a lovely reminder of the community that has grown around the shop over the past four and a half decades.”

The celebration included food from two local bakeries, with Everest Bread providing a selection of vegan bakes and The Great Cake Company supplying gluten-free cakes, bakes and savouries.

There was also a 45th anniversary giveaway, with the first 45 customers spending £10 at the bakery stall receiving a limited-edition organic Wild Oats tote bag and a coffee.

One of the most personal moments of the morning came from a customer called Jay, who has shopped at Wild Oats for more than 40 years. She presented Mike Abrahams and director and store manager Alicia Stephens with a planted tree to mark the occasion.

“It was a lovely reminder that the story of Wild Oats isn't only about how long the shop has been here,” the owners shared. “It's about the people who have supported it along the way. Whether you've been shopping with us for four decades or discovered us for the first time on Friday, we're so grateful to have you as part of the Wild Oats community.”