– by Barry Mathias –
This is the fourth in a six-part series of profiles on some great local businesses that are working to keep us all in good health.
The Lifestyle Select store has flourished at 9769 Fifth Street in Sidney for nearly 18 years; it is part of Lifestyle Markets, and was established one year after the company’s “flagship” on Douglas Street in Victoria.
“When Lifestyle Markets opened in July 1995, there was nothing like it; it had not been done before and was a huge risk,” says Carmine Sparanese, the General Manager.
Carmine is an energetic 46-year-old who joined the company at its inception nearly 19 years ago when owner Lorraine Peterson decided her new store would incorporate the largest selection of organic and local foods, with a complete range of nutritional supplements and vitamins and a natural foods deli; in those days it was a revolutionary concept!
For Carmine, who is married and has a 12-year-old daughter, “It was an opportunity to be part of a new venture.” He saw the potential, eventually becoming General Manager, and was a driving force behind the creation of the Sidney location, and a third store in Cook Street in 2001.
The company claims to have the largest selection of nutritional supplements and vitamins, natural organic foods, and pure skin care on Vancouver Island, and its Douglas Street store has been voted “Best Health Store” and “Best Nutrition Store in Victoria.” While the store in Sidney is smaller, approximately 1,200 square feet as against the 10,000 square feet of the Victoria outlet, it is, nevertheless, a remarkably well-stocked and attractive place to shop.
As General Manager, Carmine is responsible for major aspects of the organization. “We offer great customer service and take great care in selecting our staff,” says Carmine, who admits to being a “people person.” He is proud to explain that Lifestyle Markets employs people who have a thorough understanding of the products they sell. “Many of our natural products advisors possess years of industry experience.
“They’re well educated through their tenure in the industry and also through various nutrition courses. We make it a point to have our people stay up-to-date on the natural health products on our shelves.” Carmine is quick to point out that “we encourage customers with serious health conditions to work with a licensed health practitioner and have our stores become a resource for their needs based on those consultations.”
On entering this welcoming Sidney store, you are conscious of a sense of order and clarity achieved through the direction of store manager Stephanie and assistant manager Kali. The spacious entry area, with its focus on skin and body products, leads on to a comprehensive display of nutritional supplements and vitamins on the left wall; on the right is an attractive display of natural and organic groceries. Down the middle of the store are two aisles with products varying from organic coffees and teas to selected allergy-friendly and functional foods for everyone from raw food enthusiasts to those with food sensitivities. And always, there are knowledgeable staff members to direct you to the right section.
As well as the three main street stores, Lifestyle Markets has, since 2000, built a successful online store that provides free shipping throughout Canada for vitamin orders over $70 and in B.C. for those over $50.
