Ellwood Thompson’s
Where Carytown Shops, Eats & Gathers

For more than 30 years, Ellwood Thompson’s has been more than a grocery store; it’s been where community, wellness, and local food come together. That vision started with Rick Hood.

A chance to partner in a small natural foods market became a lifelong mission: fresh, wholesome food, trusted products, and a store that genuinely cares about its community. In 2013, Rick helped launch Real Local RVA, uniting farmers, restaurateurs, and food advocates to strengthen the region’s food system.

Although Rick is no longer part of Ellwood’s, his vision remains simple:

That’s been our mantra since day one. For over 30 years, we’ve grown into a full-service neighborhood market and health store, the unofficial anchor of Carytown and a steadfast part of the local food movement.

We read the labels so you don’t have to. Everything on our shelves is chosen with the same question in mind: is this good for you, good for the community, and good for the planet?

We proudly showcase purveyors from within 100 miles of the store. When you shop with us, you’re supporting nearby farmers, makers, and food entrepreneurs, and getting fresher food in the process.

It’s a win for you, a win for them, and a win for Richmond.

Staying green isn’t a campaign for us. It’s just how we do things.

Our 80+ stewards are the heart of Ellwood’s. From our bakery crew to our Store Manager Mike Holland, these are the real people who make the market feel like home.

We’re an experience, not just a stop on your errand list, and our team is a big reason why. Stop in and say hi to our stewards

Fairtrade is a global certification system designed to create a more equitable and sustainable system of trade. It ensures that the farmers, growers, and workers behind everyday products are paid fairly, supported with safe working conditions, and empowered through long-term community development.

Just as important, Fairtrade promotes environmental sustainability. Certified producers follow standards that encourage responsible farming practices, reduce harmful chemicals, and protect soil and ecosystems. Together, these standards help build stronger, more resilient farming communities while supporting both people and the planet.

Ellwood is proud to be part of the Fairtrade family.

We’re proud to partner with Fairtrade-certified producers across our assortment. From everyday staples to specialty items, these products reflect our commitment to transparency, ethical sourcing, and doing better at every level of the supply chain.

In October 2025, this commitment was recognized as part of Fairtrade America’s nationwide mural campaign. We were selected out of a small number of nominated retailers to receive a custom mural installed at our store.

The artwork honors cocoa farmer and community leader Aminata Sannoh of Sierra Leone, a member of the Munafa cooperative. Her story represents the farmers behind Fairtrade-certified products like the chocolate found on our shelves.

Click the link to read more about this story

The mural was created by Richmond-based artist Jason Ford @jfordtheartist, known for vibrant public artworks that spotlight community stories and human connection. His portrait of Aminata transforms a global supply chain into something visible and human, right on our wall.

For us, the mural is a daily reminder that every product connects back to real people and real communities—and that better choices in sourcing can create lasting, meaningful impact.