By Tammy Schneider

Since 1989, Fine Fettle, originally known as The Rhubarb Patch, has been providing natural foods and health products to the community. Leise Peddie, who purchased the store in 2001, is now ready to turn over the reins and retire.
A former secretary at St. Anthony’s School, Peddie was interested in finding a business that would allow her to help people make good choices about their health. While she acknowledges that her learning curve was steep, the concept of the business fit her like a glove.
The store has been purchased by her daughter Barbara Peddie, a nurse, and granddaughter Samantha Smith, who has a background in retail and computers.
“It’s time to pass it on to the next generation,” said Peddie.
While she has seen many changes in the store and her customers over the years, she knows the store is in good hands, and shoppers can continue to enjoy the variety of products and customer service they have become accustomed to.
Part of Peddie’s role in previous years has been to keep an eye on what her customers were looking for, and to watch changing trends in health products and nutrition.
“People are more aware of their health and trying to maintain their health,” said Peddie. “Customers are aware of what they consume and looking for preventative choices.”
As a dedicated health food store, Fine Fettle offers foods for people with special dietary requirements, including vegan and gluten-free options.
Peddie says these are the items people are asking for.
“I’m seeing more young people with children,” said Peddie. “Parents are more in charge of what they consume.”
Asked what she will miss the most, Peddie says that seeing her customers and the friendships she has developed has been very rewarding.
“You get to know them and their families over time,” Peddie said. “It’s been a wonderful 18-year journey, and a very happy time in my life.”