A new shop, Heather and Rose Health, opened its doors in Watford in October to offer the local community an independent health store experience.
Business partners by Kasia Chajdacki and Branka Simic both previously worked in Panacea health store in a nearby shopping centre, but when that closed down they resolved to branch out on their own.
“Watford doesn’t have a wholefood store – there is a Holland & Barrett, but we are the only independent health food store in the town itself. We decided to open a small independent shop because between us we have so much experience,” explains Chajdacki. “My colleague worked at Panacea for 18 years and I am a qualified nutritionist with experience in the health food industry.”
Watford doesn’t have a wholefood store – there is a Holland & Barrett, but we are the only independent health food store in the town itself
The new premises of around 55 square metres offers plenty of room to house a good mix of products, says Chajdacki. “We stock a little bit of everything. We offer good quality organic foods – speciality foods that aren’t widely available in supermarkets. We have a lot of vegan foods, gluten-free and sugar-free options. We also have good ranges of supplements, skincare and beauty products. We stock well known, professional brands including NaturesPlus, BioCare, Lamberts, Viridian, Terranova, Higher Nature, Solgar and Pukka.”
Heather and Rose Health is gearing up to offer a variety of community services, and already has food sensitivity testing. The owners are also collaborating with naturopaths and homeopaths as well as a local GP who is starting an integrative clinic.
Chajdacki says the store is situated in a great location, on Watford High Street, and therefore attracts plenty of walk-ins. “It’s a really nice area. We have a huge window looking out at a beautiful pond with ducks. We can see out and people can see in, and we’ve had a few customers who have recognized us and walked in to find a familiar face. Not everybody knows that we’re here yet, as we’ve only been open two weeks, but I must say it’s been very well received. We are constantly having new people come in, as well as our old customers from Panacea, who are very happy we are here.”
