Catherine and Callum Eddie, the owners of Grampian Health Store, have announced they  are retiring and “passing on the torch” to new owners, sisters Sarah-Jayne Farman and Stephanie Hundtofte. 

Catherine opened Grampian Health – now a retail institution in its home city of Aberdeen – in 1999, after previously running health stores in Yorkshire. But her involvement in the health food trade goes back even further, to when she started working in The Health Shop in Inverness, aged 19. 

Overwhelmed with memories
Posting on the store’s Facebook page, Catherine said: “After many wonderful years of serving this incredible community, the time has come for us, the long-term owners of Grampian Health Store, to embark on a new chapter in our lives. This has been an immensely fulfilling journey, and both Callum and I would like to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support, loyalty, and friendship throughout the years. Serving you has been an honour, and we are overwhelmed with memories of shared stories and a commitment to healthier living.”

While the decision to retire had “not been easy”, Catherine said that she and Callum had felt it was “time for us to pass on the torch to enjoy our retirement and spend quality time with family and friends”. And she said she was excited about the prospect of “seeing the legacy continue under new ownership” and “certain that the next custodians of this special place will carry it forward with the same love and dedication”.

New owners, Stephanie and Sarah, have a background in health food retailing and bring with them fresh ideas, energy and a genuine passion for fostering a healthier lifestyle.

Catherine said she and Callum had been on “an unforgettable journey” with Grampian Health and “leave with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for each and every one of you”.

Inspiring and professional
Prominent figures from the health food sector have been quick to congratulate the pair on their retirement and thank them for their contribution. Wild Oats founder, Mike Abrahams, said they had “created a great legacy for a new generation” which would be the perfect tribute to “all that hard work and diligence over the years”. Viridian owner and founder, Cheryl Thallon said “you’ve been inspiring and professional retailers, serving trade associations and bringing health and happiness to all your customers. You’ll be greatly missed.”

Main image: Catherine Eddie (left), with the new owners of Grampian Health Store, Sarah-Jayne Farman and Stephanie Hundtofte. Grampian Health Store