Budding company brings natural products to local markets

Erich Arvidson, founder and owner of Gunther’s All Natural, started his business about six months ago based on a fluke. When he stumbled upon his grandmother’s old recipe book he decided to try his hand at making soap and was left with more than he expected.

“I didn’t realize that there would be so much excess soap,” Arvidson said. “I sold some on eBay and to friends and family who then told me they wanted more.”

Gunther is Arvidson’s middle name and was the source of inspiration in naming the brand, he said. Arvidson started participating in farmer’s markets in Columbia in August and relies on local blogs and social media to promote his products.  Gunther’s All Natural carries an array of personal-hygiene products including soaps, lip balm, lotion bars and dry shampoo.

The company’s emphasis on natural ingredients and local values attracted attention from Lucky’s Market and both Clover’s Natural Market locations in Columbia. Arvidson is proud to have these stores carry his products, but remains focused on the future. He aims to get into other supermarkets in the area and work toward owning and operating a store in the downtown area as his business continues to expand.

“We take pride in being from Columbia,” Arvidson said. “We are a young company and really hope to make an impact here.”