Convenience grocery chain set to launch

Lisa Sedlar's recoloring the stripes she's earned in the natural foods industry with the official launch of Green Zebra Grocery in Portland, Ore.

Sedlar left Oregon's New Seasons Market in the fall to pursue her new take on a grocery store: small-format shops that offer healthier foods in densely populated neighborhoods. She talked with NFM about the convenient store concept in this interview.

This week, the Portland Business Journal announced the chain's name—Green Zebra Grocery—and two launch locations.

“The name Green Zebra," Sedlar said in a release to KOIN Local 6 TV, "came from the tomato variety that grows particularly well in our region. I wanted the name to be memorable, fun (even fanciful) and relate to our local food shed. I think Green Zebra Grocery accomplishes all three.”

The concept of convience will continue to grow in the natural foods arena. This store concept is one to watch.