Not many people in this world ever heard of Lodi, Michigan. It’s one of those places in this country that barely qualifies as a wide spot in the road. It also may be described as a town where you “don’t want to blink or you’ll miss it” kinda town. Heck, we’re not even sure if Lodi qualifies as a “town”. It is on M-66 just South of that famous M-72 near Kalkaska, Michigan. Now Kalkaska is a boomtown compared to Lodi.

Anyway, there’s a business in Lodi called Natural Farm Products. It is owned and operated by Zachary Cox. This young man is an example of what made this country great. Zachary is an entrepreneur in every sense of the word. Who else would start up a retail business in Lodi, Michigan and expect to be a success.

I started patronizing Zachary’s store on the suggestion of a neighbor. I used to be in my own business before retiring and I know what it takes to make it. Zach has got what it takes from my observation. You walk into his place and the first thing you notice is that Zachary is usually there all by himself. It’s a true one-man operation. How else can he keep his overhead down in Lodi, Michigan? The store is crowded and might be considered disorganized by some. Look beyond the crowded format and you will find one of the finest selections of boots and Carhartt Clothing in Northern Michigan. The main emphasis of the store focuses on seed, fertilizers, pet supplies, bird feeders and supplies, deer feed during hunting season, hay & straw. During the warmer months they sell plants and shrubs for your gardening needs.

I have found that in spite of being small, their prices are very reasonable. They are always friendly and eager to help with your questions. It’s nice, in this day of “big box stores,” to still find a bit of Americana out there in a place called Lodi, Michigan. Drop in sometime and say hello to Zachary. We need to support operations like this.