RENEE SOUTHARD

I am passionately involved in the health food industry as an educator and business owner since 1992.  I initially opened an 800 square foot supplement shop in Gastonia NC and quickly understood that supplements did not fully address the needs of my customers.  After working with customers and listening to request from the community, I brought in organic foods and HBA to more adequately address healthy living which resulted in relocating Organic Marketplace to a 5000 sq ft location in 2003.

Initially serving on the board of SENPA inspired me to continue to be a part of the work we were accomplishing to advance independent natural products retailers in a market that was changing.  I’ve always been a teacher and my love of education has guided my career path.  It has taken me into teaching health and wellness, something that I feel extremely passionately about as I learn every day.  My commitment to you as the current Director of Education is to continue the inspiring initiatives that our board has developed over the last 3 years.  Through my direction along with my dedicated committee members, we have produced 12 Road Shows, our grass roots outreach, throughout the southeast empowering

Independent retailers with up to date product awareness, legislative awareness, and marketing tools that are crucial for competing in the competitive market we face. Nothing will ever replace the interaction of a knowledgeable staff member and their loyal customer. It is the role of Independent “Retailer.   It is my heart to serve on this board and to continue the vision as well as develop and achieve the most valuable asset, personal knowledge, and integrity to the Natural Product industry.