National chains such as King Soopers and Safeway may dominate market share in Colorado, but independent grocers continue to demonstrate why they are the choice for many consumers.
In addition to resilience and innovation, independents have gained a loyal following through their product offerings, customer service and strong commitment to community.
Not surprisingly, Colorado’s independent grocers often are touted for their strong home-grown food movement. Consumers, both in metro Denver and elsewhere throughout the state, consider themselves health-conscious and prioritize locally sourced, organic and specialty products.
The next way Colorado shoppers stand apart is through their interest in health and wellness. This demand continues to be reflected in larger-than-average assortments within the grocery aisles.
What’s more, they are increasingly concerned about their impact on the environment and routinely seek out ways to lessen their footprint. This has led to a surge in demand for sustainable products and packaging in the state.
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At the same time, Colorado consumers are tracking with national averages when it comes to wanting convenience and e-commerce options. They have quickly taken to online ordering and delivery where available. In response, Amazon Fresh and GoPuff are expanding their reach in the state, offering rapid delivery and pickup options in Denver as well as the foothills region.
The larger grocery chains may have a stake hold in the state, but independent grocers have shown that it is possible to flourish and build a loyal customer base by staying close to their founding principles.
Here is a look at four retailers that exemplify the trends shaping the Colorado grocery market and their selling points:
Leevers Locavore Northside
Location: Denver
Owners: 100 percent employee owned 
Size: About 10,000 square feet
Product focus: Carries a curated selection of produce, high-quality gourmet groceries, including a wide selection of meats, dairy, breads, cheeses, coffees, wines, prepared foods and specialty items.
Selling points:
- Leevers Locavore Northside has positioned itself as a destination for consumers seeking fresh, local food. Its owners strive to have every product be local, natural or fresh.
- Building relationships with local farmers and producers is one way the store has cultivated a loyal customer base.
- It has a strong emphasis on sustainability, community partnerships and educational workshops.
- The store partners with local restaurants to feature prepared food options.
- It regularly holds events including music, wine pairing and fundraisers.
- The store is committed to education and sustainability initiatives.
Bread & Butter Market
Location: Colorado Springs
Owners: Aubrey Day and Stacy Poore
Size: About 15,000 square feet 
Product focus: Colorado-grown produce, meats and cheeses, spirits and craft brews, prepared foods, fresh snacks, frozen and pantry staples.
Selling points:
- Bread & Butter Market caters to a discerning clientele with a passion for food.
- The store’s owners seek to create a community around food. In doing so, they have created a very loyal customer base.
- They source local first when they can. Small businesses are encouraged to apply.
- Large percentage of products carried are the result of customer requests.
- An emphasis on gourmet products, coupled with a commitment to customer service, has earned it a reputation as a “can’t miss” shopping destination.
- The market is known for its knowledgeable staff, product sampling and focus on culinary experiences, including its many cooking classes and demonstrations.
- Staff members are happy to create a variety of gift baskets for customers.
Ranch Foods Direct
Location: Colorado Springs
Owner: Mike Callicarate
Size: About 8,000 square feet 
Product focus: Raises, butchers, processes and sells beef and pork using a regenerative model. The store also sells specialty meats, prepared foods, pre-packaged meat, homegrown produce, locally made bar soaps, raw pet food and specialty products made in the area.
Selling points:
- Ranch Foods Direct is a combination meat packing facility and local farmer’s retail market.
- It is known for its high quality, naturally tender meats and foods.
- The food is raised humanely, minimally processed and free of chemicals.
- It has competitive pricing, bulk buying options, features products from small farmers and artisanal food producers.
- It offers in-store, online and shipping options.
Clark’s Market
Location: Locations throughout Colorado – including Aspen, Crested Butte, Denver and Vail – as well as Utah and Arizona.
Owner: Clark family; Tom Clark Jr. at the helm today.
Size: Varies by location, with stores ranging from 14,000-25,000 square feet 
Product focus: High-end groceries, gourmet items and prepared foods.
Unique selling points:
- Clark’s Market has established itself as a premier grocery store in several of the state’s resort communities.
- Passionate about quality, the stores offer a curated selection of high-end specialty products, quality meat and seafood.
- Their mantra is “Eat Healthy. Eat Fresh.”
- They emphasize local sourcing.
- They are deeply invested in local nonprofits and small businesses.
- The stores are committed to consistent quality, service and exceeding guest expectations.
