Fresh Food, Community, and Empowerment
In the village of Forest Park, Illinois, Living Fresh Market has become much more than a neighborhood grocery store. As a Black-owned supermarket, it represents economic empowerment, community investment, and a commitment to providing fresh, high-quality food to residents throughout the western suburbs of Chicago. Located at 7520 Roosevelt Road, the market has established itself as a destination for shoppers seeking both convenience and quality.
Living Fresh Market occupies a large retail space that once housed another grocery operation. When the market opened in 2018, it brought renewed energy and opportunity to the area, helping to fill an important need for accessible fresh foods and grocery services. Its presence helped revitalize a major commercial location and provided local residents with a modern shopping experience.
Today, the market is owned and operated by the Winston family, whose leadership has emphasized service, community engagement, and long-term sustainability. The ownership transition in 2021 marked a significant milestone, making Living Fresh Market one of the most prominent Black-owned supermarkets in the United States.
One of the market’s defining characteristics is its size. Covering more than 70,000 square feet, the store offers a full-service grocery experience that rivals many national chains. Customers can shop for fresh produce, meats, dairy products, baked goods, and household necessities all under one roof.
Fresh produce is a cornerstone of the Living Fresh Market experience. The store places a strong emphasis on fruits and vegetables, providing shoppers with a wide selection of healthy options. For many residents, the availability of fresh and nutritious foods makes the market an important resource for maintaining healthy lifestyles.
In addition to groceries, Living Fresh Market features specialty departments including a bakery, butcher shop, coffee bar, and hot foods section. These amenities create a shopping environment that feels more like a community marketplace than a traditional supermarket. Customers can purchase freshly prepared meals, baked goods, and specialty products during their visit.
Customer service is frequently praised by shoppers. Reviews often highlight the friendliness of employees, the cleanliness of the store, and the willingness of staff members to assist customers. This emphasis on hospitality has helped the market develop a loyal customer base that extends beyond Forest Park itself.
The market has also become a symbol of Black entrepreneurship and economic development. In a grocery industry dominated by large national chains, Living Fresh Market demonstrates the impact that Black-owned businesses can have when they invest directly in their communities. Its success has inspired support from residents throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.
Community involvement remains central to the market’s identity. Living Fresh Market has earned recognition for its efforts to support families and address food insecurity. During times of need, the store has participated in initiatives designed to help residents access groceries and essential supplies.
The store’s reputation has spread largely through word of mouth and social media. Many customers report traveling considerable distances specifically to support a Black-owned grocery business while enjoying the store’s extensive product selection and welcoming atmosphere.
Beyond its role as a grocery store, Living Fresh Market serves as a gathering place where commerce and community intersect. Shoppers appreciate the sense of pride and ownership reflected throughout the business, and many view their purchases as investments in local economic growth.
As Living Fresh Market continues to grow, it stands as an example of how locally owned businesses can transform communities. Through quality products, exceptional service, and a commitment to uplifting those it serves, the market has become a source of pride for Forest Park and a model for community-centered entrepreneurship across the nation.
