About Us
Founded in 1924 by two visionary sisters, Olive and Lena May, Olive May Natural Foods began as a modest 500-square-foot storefront on Washington Street in East Orange, New Jersey. Over the past century, the store has grown in both size and impact—making history as theoldest operating natural food store in the state.
What started as a small health food shop evolved into a cornerstone of the East Orange community. After being sold to the Wayne Coffee Company, the store was later purchased by entrepreneur Nasar Arain, who has continued to build on the May sisters’ legacy. Under Arain’s leadership, the store expanded into a 6,000-square-foot location at 516–518 Main Street, which opened its doors in 2003 with the support of East Orange Mayor Robert Bowser and a crowd of long-time loyal customers.
The building Olive May now occupies has a rich local history of its own. Originally built in 1929, it once housed beloved community staples like Mama Hawk’s Donuts, Superior Drug Store, and the Brick Church Fabric Shop. Over the years, it served as campaign headquarters, retail space, and even a tech training center—before becoming the vibrant home of Olive May Natural Foods.
Olive May has always stood for more than just products; it’s a place where generations have come for trusted advice, wellness guidance, and friendly conversations. As the city around it continues to change, Olive May remains a symbol of resilience, healing, and community.