Ozark Herb & Spice Opens In Bentonville

Owners: Marvin and Becci Shipman

Address: 1501 S.E. Walton Blvd., Suite

105, Bentonville 72712

Phone: (479) 254-9230

Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday,

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday

Startup Date: July 2, 2002

Marvin Shipman began exploring the benefits of herbal supplements and “naturopathy” after experiencing seizures nearly 18 years ago. Unsatisfied with medical treatment, Shipman and his wife, Becci, searched everywhere from flea markets to used book stores to find answers to their questions about his seizures. Their findings have kept Marvin Shipman alive and the couple in business for 18 years.

The Shipmans relocated to Northwest Arkansas and opened their 2,200-SF Ozark Herb & Spice last July in Bentonville with the hope of helping people who are in the dilemma that they once faced.

“Most clients come in with concerns they can’t get addressed other places and are looking for alternatives — they just want to get better,” Becci Shipman said.

“Most of our clients come into the store informed and are conscious of what kind of lifestyle they want to lead.”

Ozark Herb & Spice offers multiple services to clients, including massage and raindrop therapy and other elements of naturopathy. Vast arrays of herbal supplements are available for treatment and prevention of ailments. Their client base ranges from sickly infants and toddlers to the young at heart trying to slow down the aging process. Becci Shipman said that some of her clients have even had four legs.

“We’ve had dogs and concerned dog owners in here, and one time we even treated a horse,” she said.

Open one year, Marvin and Becci Shipman credit much success to their four trained and experienced employees.

“We’ve been in business for 18 years because of our educated employees. People trust their judgment,” she said.

The Shipmans declined to disclose their startup costs. Considering their first year in Northwest Arkansas as a success, the couple hope to expand awareness on the benefits of an herbal lifestyle.