Spotlight: Andrea Szomor from The Health Shoppe

Yonge + St. Clair is more than just an intersection. It’s home to a delightful array of retail shops and businesses that keep residents staying true to the “shop local” mentality. The Health Shoppe, located at 1375 Yonge St is one of these delightful places, and it’s proud to be nestled in the heart of Yonge + St. Clair for now over 40 years. They’ve embraced the small town charm of this neighbourhood by turning customers into acquaintances, and then into friends through familiarity and kindness.

We caught up with the long standing owner Andrea Szomor about popular items within her shop, and what her favourite spots are in the neighbourhood.

Q: Tell us more about the Health Shoppe

We cater to our customers special health needs and we are always excited to bring the latest trends to the neighbourhood. We offer a wide range of supplements, natural and organic groceries including LIVE salads, gluten free, vegan and fermented foods. The store also has an extensive health and beauty department and gift ware section within our 3000 sq ft space.

Q: Any particular item that is a MUST for spring/ summer 2018?

This upcoming spring the Health Shoppe will be bringing back our natural, environmentally conscious sunscreens to prepare customers for a much missed season of sun and outdoor fun. They are zinc based and free from oxybenzone, a chemical linked to coral bleaching. Our most popular brands are Godess Gardens, Green Beaver and Badger.
So far in 2018 probiotics and fermented foods are still really hot. New this year are collagen supplements, both marine and bovine for skin and joints.

Q: What are some of your favourite places in the neighbourhood. Any hidden gems you’d like to tell us about?

Delicious food and the infectious good humour and service of restaurants like Barnsteiners, Jingles and Spiga have kept us coming back for more over the years and will continue to serve our lunch and work-party needs.

Q: Anything else you’d like to share about the neighbourhood?

As most of our customers know, Tuesday is our senior’s day and has become the busiest day of the week. Just come in and ask.

Q: April is Earth Month. Do you have anything going on at the Health Shoppe to celebrate that?

Spring cleaning meets the environmentally friendly with our line of cleaning products by Seventh Generation. A collection we are excited to be offering at 25% off in April. With plant-based ingredients, 0% bleach or synthetic fragrances added and containers 100% composed of recycled plastics, you can clear the muck of winter away worry-free.
EcoMax is another natural cleaning line is made with food grade ingredients, is Canadian and boasts ingredients derived from biodegradable, renewable and sustainable botanical resources, making it both gentle on the environment and your skin. Ecomax is also 25% of this month as well as Goddess Garden sunscreens that are free of oxybenzone, a chemical linked to coral bleaching.