Rainbow Blossom CEO talks overcoming struggles

Access Louisville

After some struggles years ago, Louisville-based Rainbow Blossom has a great last few years.

Rainbow Blossom, an independent chain of natural food markets that specializes in natural grocery, body care and health and wellness products, just opened a new East End location a few months ago. It also made LBF's Fast 50 list of growing companies in Louisville in this year, with revenue rising 18% over the last three years to $13.04 million in 2023.

Second generation owner Summer Auerbach joins us on the Access Louisville podcast this week and explains things weren't always so rosy.

She discusses the challenges and strategies of growing the family business, which was founded by her parents in 1977. Despite opening a sixth location and expanding its New Albany store recently, Auerbach emphasizes maintaining the company's small, accessible, and family-like culture. On the show she also highlights the importance of direct communication, team input,and creating written guidelines for consistency. Auerbach also reflects on overcoming tough times by differentiating from competition, being nimble and innovative, and leveraging data and metrics to drive growth

"We have really been able to make changes quickly, to be responsive to community needs and make sure we are separating ourselves from our competition," she said.

She also talks about where she sees the company heading in the future — including a potential medical cannabis dispensary license that it is seeking.

"I think that will be a natural progression for us as that space moves forward," she said. "I'm proud of our state for taking this leap. I'm glad we're not the 50th state [to make marijuana legal.]

Auerbach also was recently honored as part of LBF's Most Admired CEOs program. More on her and other honorees here.

You can listen to the full interview in the player above as well as on popular podcast services like Apple Podcasts and Spotify (which are also linked above.) Access Louisville is a weekly podcast from Louisville Business First.