Nature’s, Bend organic store, closing after 32 years

A pioneering organic and natural food grocery store in Bend is closing its doors after 32 years in business, the owner confirmed Saturday.

Debbie Sloan, the owner of Nature’s General Stores says she will be closing the doors at its store in Wagner Mall on Northeast Third Street by the end of the year.

Sloan opened the organic store back in 1983 and expanded the store with a variety of products.

Sloan decided to close the store after she said many big chain organic stores started to come into Bend.

She said she has seen many local businesses close shop because of the corporate stores.

Sloan says she was happy to provide residents fresh and organic food for many years.

Sloan says it’s a bittersweet moment for her because after making some great memories with her employees and customers throughout the years.

“I just want to say thank you Bend for letting me serve you for so many years, Sloan said. It’s been fun and a pleasure, I got so many memories.”

Sloan said she is working on some business plans but won’t reveal them until they are finalized.