In 1986, Terry Brett and his wife Pat Brett were running a small biodynamic farm store outside of Philadelphia, PA called Seven Star Farms. It was located in a 400-sq.-ft. building where they sold organic yogurt that was made onsite.

Today, the couple owns six natural grocery stores in the area, Kimberton Whole Foods, with a majority managing position in a seventh. They work alongside four of their five children and another 260 employees.

“My eldest—my daughter, Heidi, who was a ceramics arts major in college, is now the head of our debt finance department,” said Terry Brett. “She never took a business course. She’s good at math and can think logically. My second child, Ezra, is head of operations. My third child, Colin, manages our main store’s café. My fourth, my daughter, Rosie, got a law degree and works in Philadelphia. My youngest son, Robin, didn’t go to college, was director of purchasing, head of produce, and head merchandiser. He is an exceptionally talented young man.

Now the soon-to-be-64-year-old storeowner said he is considering stepping away from the day-to-day retail operations; having his children running the business makes the move easier. “I couldn’t be in a better position to know that people are in it heart and soul seven days a week and they want me to take a break.”

For many years, Brett said he saw the store’s commitment to ethical business practices and sustainable regional farming as a life calling; his children do, too.

“I’m so grateful, It’s never about the money. I’ve taken a lot less than most owners take and the kids are the same way. They’ve told me, ‘don’t give me a raise.’ They’re in it for the mission and they’re in it for the right thing. That’s why I feel that all the jealously of who’s going to get more isn’t there, and I’m really grateful for that.”

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