Kristina's Natural Ranch Market has closed in Fresno after 45 years. Facebook photo via Kristina's

After 45 years in business providing Fresno residents organic and natural food and supplements, Kristina’s Natural Ranch Market has closed its doors.

A post on the store’s Facebook page Jan. 15 announced the impending closure and thanked local shoppers for supporting the small business — one of the region’s first health food retailers.

Kristina’s Natural Ranch Market was founded by Jim Belcher. With the help of his wife Cynthia, Belcher ran the store until his death in 2016.

It was named after their daughter Kristina.

“As most of you have heard, after 45 years of supporting the valley we will be closing the doors at the end of January,” the store posted to its Facebook page. “Thank you for shopping local and supporting our small business.”

 

An outpouring of support flooded the post announcing the store’s closure, with many shoppers praising its healthy and organic options, sharing support and appreciation for both Jim and Cynthia for providing them with healthy options years before Whole Foods and Sprouts made their first Fresno appearance.

“I’m so sad to see your iconic store close!” reads one post responding to the announcement. “You’ve offered a great service to the community throughout many years and you will be greatly missed.”

A video posted to the social media page on Feb. 3 showed an empty store, officially announcing the closure had been completed. The store’s website is also no longer active.