Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Family-Owned Grocery Store in Gainesville
Since 1951, Ward's Super Market has been a family-owned and operated grocery store dedicated to serving the Gainesville community with fresh, locally sourced products. Our commitment to quality began with a small open-air stand selling pecans and local produce, evolving over decades into a full-service supermarket offering organic foods, natural supplements, and specialty items. We prioritize partnerships with over 400 local vendors to ensure our customers receive the freshest goods while supporting sustainable agriculture and community economic growth. Our team, including multiple generations of the Ward family, takes pride in providing personalized service and maintaining the warmth of a neighborhood market.We believe in transparency, ethical sourcing, and building relationships with customers, employees, and vendors alike. Our expanded offerings now include a Natural Foods Department, Wine Department, and seasonal products that reflect our dedication to innovation and tradition. With every purchase, we strive to strengthen the local economy and reduce environmental impact by minimizing transportation distances for our products. Our story is rooted in family values, community trust, and a passion for quality that continues to guide our daily operations.
Services
Fruits and Vegetables
Natural Supplements
Body Care Products
Chocolate
Fresh Baked Goods
Bulk Goods
Private Label Items
Local Honey
Organic Coffee
Seasonal Produce
Details
- Year established: 1951
Highlights and features
- We've served Gainesville with locally sourced groceries since 1951.
- Our family-owned operation prioritizes community partnerships and sustainability.
- We offer over 400 specialty products including vegan and gluten-free options.
- Our staff provides personalized service with generational market expertise.
- We reduce environmental impact through short farm-to-table supply chains.
Services
Fruits and Vegetables
Our fresh produce department features locally grown fruits and vegetables harvested at peak ripeness. By sourcing from nearby farms, we ensure maximum nutritional value and flavor while reducing transportation emissions. Customers enjoy seasonal availability and specialty items unavailable at chain supermarkets.
Natural Supplements
We offer a comprehensive selection of organic and non-GMO supplements, including herbal remedies and wellness products. Our knowledgeable staff provides guidance on health-focused choices that align with modern dietary needs and traditional wellness practices.
Fresh Baked Goods
Daily baked breads, pastries, and bagels come from local artisan bakers using time-honored techniques. Our rotating selection includes gluten-free and vegan options, with special holiday items available throughout the year.
Bulk Goods
The bulk department offers grains, nuts, spices, and snacks in customizable quantities. This zero-waste option allows customers to purchase exact amounts while maintaining product freshness through modern dispensing systems.
Private Label Items
Our private label line features specialty foods and household goods meeting strict quality standards. These unique offerings include locally produced tempeh, coffee blends, and artisanal spreads unavailable elsewhere in the region.
People
Billy Ward
Founder
Billy Ward established the original open-air market in 1951, laying the foundation for Gainesville's premier independent grocery store. He continues agricultural operations supplying beef and hay to the family business.
Trish Ward
Co-Owner Emeritus
Trish Ward joined the business after meeting Billy at Doug's Dairy Twirl. She played pivotal roles in department development before retiring to spend time with family.
Bryan Ward
Meat Department Manager
Third-generation grocer Bryan Ward oversees the meat department, maintaining high standards for locally sourced proteins. He represents the family's ongoing commitment to quality and community service.
Danielle Ward
Store Manager
Danielle Ward serves as store manager, ensuring daily operations reflect the family's values. She leads staff development and customer service initiatives while maintaining inventory excellence.
Questions
What makes Ward's Supermarket different from chain grocery stores?
We're Gainesville's only independent family-owned supermarket with over 70 years of local service. Our focus on community partnerships and 400+ local vendors creates unique product offerings.
Do you carry specialty dietary products?
Yes, we offer extensive vegan, gluten-free, and organic options across all departments, including exclusive private label items not found elsewhere in the region.
How does Ward's support local farmers?
We source from over 400 local vendors, prioritizing seasonal produce and hand-crafted goods. This creates sustainable income for area farmers while reducing transportation emissions.
Are there prepared food options available?
Our fresh baked goods department offers daily made breads, pastries, and bagels from local bakers. We also carry homemade hummus, tzatziki, and specialty spreads.
What are your store hours?
We're open Monday-Saturday 8am-8pm and Sunday 9am-7pm. Our phone number is (352) 372-1741 for special order requests or questions.