Company History

Richard Downey opens the first Richard’s Whole Foods in Sarasota, Florida. From the beginning, Richard’s purpose has been to offer a variety of quality natural and specialty foods, supplements and related products to the public at affordable prices. This is a philosophy the current owner, John Rorer, has sustained as Richard’s continues to grow.

Rorer and two partners buy the 6-store Richard’s chain from Richard Downey’s family.

Richard’s grosses approximately $3 million when purchased in 1997, sales doubled in the first two years through upgrading and remodeling the stores. By 2004 the company grew to almost $9 million, 12 stores and over 80 employees.

Rorer purchases 11 stores and takes over as sole proprietor of Richard’s Whole Foods.

Rorer revamps company’s management team and operational structure. He overhauls the brand to be more memorable and initiates phased remodels of all stores.

Richard’s Whole Foods is renamed to Richards Foodporium® and becomes the first "convenient" natural & specialty foods retailer in the nation.

Richard’s now operates 12 locations. This growth mode is largely attributed to the dedicated executive team, strong store managers, low turn over and knowledgeable sales associates.