Our Story
Who We Are
Rollin’ Oats is Tampa Bay’s locally owned natural food grocer, providing high-quality products at affordable prices with unparalleled customer service. Our staff is knowledgeable and eager to help our customers with special orders, stock checks, and product suggestions. Our team members are encouraged to express themselves and to feel comfortable at work, leading to more genuine connections with our neighbors and community members.
Getting Rollin’
Bert Swain and Larry Schwartz founded Rollin’ Oats Market & Café in St. Petersburg, FL in July of 1994. Bert had a background in specialty and natural foods and co-owned a coffee and herbs store in the French Quarter. Larry had worked in food service and previously owned an uptown neighborhood bar.
The two met at a poker game when they resided in New Orleans. They became friends, and both ended up in St. Petersburg, FL. In 1985, they opened Richard’s Whole Foods in the Tyrone area, one of their first stores. The St. Petersburg location of Rollin’ Oats Market & Café opened in 1994, followed by the Tampa location in 2008.
From the beginning, Bert, Larry, and the entire team have been committed to providing our customers with the finest quality organic whole foods, nutritional supplements, and body care products at the most reasonable prices possible.
Providing Access to Healthy Foods in Tampa Bay
Some team members and many of our customers have been with us since day one! Our customers are the reason for everything we do. Unlike many competitors, we don’t operate on special “discount” or “sale” days. Instead, all of our products are always marked 10% less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Plus, we offer additional savings on hundreds of products each month.
We love the Tampa Bay community and are grateful to be surrounded by passionate and creative business owners. We stock our shelves with their unique products whenever possible. If you’re looking for a local alternative to your favorite product, just ask one of our friendly staff members.
Thank you for your support of our store, which leads to a healthy local economy and a peaceful planet.