A Savory Spice Shop Blog
Gather 'Round the Table
Celebrating spices & food that satisfies the soul
Here's to New Beginnings…
333
with Janet Johnston
Founder
Recently Mike and I were sitting on our back porch as we often enjoy doing and I could smell spring. Buds have burst open in the trees and tulips and daffodils are beginning to bloom here in Colorado. Things feel fresh and new, delightful even, and that’s the exact feeling we’ve been working to capture at Savory Spice.
In September, it will be 14 years since we opened our first shop on Platte Street in Denver, Colorado and our baby is growing up and changing. We’ve always worked to stay innovative by offering new products and focusing on keeping things interesting. In the coming months, you’ll begin to see an even bigger difference as the changes we’ve been working on for over a year to make your Savory experience more fulfilling are introduced - starting with our labels and the addition of more color!
Yellow-green for herbs, a fiery red for chiles & paprikas, Mike’s favorite shade of dark green for barbeque, and orange for the exotic spices and curries of world flavors. Ten colors in total that encompass our line of spices, seasonings, and more. We love this look, but it’s also designed to be more functional in your kitchen. As my mother said, “finally, I’ll be able to actually FIND what I’m looking for in my spice rack!” These categories will be helpful in defining the shopping experience in our stores and online too.
We’re also making changes to our packaging. We have new bags that I absolutely love, as they can stand, hang, or lie flat in a basket or drawer. They’re sturdy and can hold one, two, or three cups of a product. That’s another change that will be helpful to you: selling by volume instead of weight (for example, 1/2 cup jars, 1 cup bags, etc.). Even a novice cook can picture what a cup of something looks like! Although the net weights will still be listed for all products so you will still be able to use that when considering how much spice you need to purchase.
I love the kraft paper backing on our new bags because it reminds me of our original labels, which believe it or not, still exist in my mother’s spice rack. The spices have been refreshed of course, but she saves the original Savory bottles like she does my childhood drawings.
Proud Momma.
Our gift sets are getting their own spring makeover too with new combinations and playful names like ‘Home to Roost,’ ‘Beach Party,’ and ‘Licensed to Grill.’ They’re packaged in easy-to-wrap rectangular boxes (for those of you who have struggled year after year trying to wrap our mountain boxes!). The gift set labels sport beautiful color photos and recipes created right in our Test Kitchen. I’m also psyched about our new specialty sets that combine our spices and seasonings with other Savory goodies like our small batch BBQ sauces and Spice ‘n Easys to create meaningful gifts. It’s a total overhaul and it feels great.
Even though Mike and I started Savory way back in 2004, we feel a renewed sense of energy and excitement this year. With Mike leading our marketing team and product creation, you can expect even more flavorful Spice ‘n Easys, a new look for our BBQ sauces, more seasonal products, and whatever else he dreams up (a big hurray for his recent Whiskey Barrel Smoked Black Pepper and Sugar creations!). As the new President of Savory (girl power!) I am involved in the day-to-day ‘goings on’ here at Savory Headquarters, touching base and keeping connected with all aspects of our business.
You will start to see these changes in stores this month, and the new look and sizing will be available on the website starting in early June.
As always, we continue to be grateful for our employees, store owners, and our customers. Whether you’ve been around since the Platte Street days or only recently joined us online, thank you. You inspire us to work hard, dream up new products and recipes, and to not be afraid to change. We’re “living life full” and hope you are too!
Best,
Janet and Mike
Comments on this Article
(guest), on May 16, 2018
No no no!!!
I do *NOT* cook by volume, and I will not buy my spices by volume. DUMB!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I also don’t cook by volume. Is there any way you can add both for those of us not novice cooks?
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Good Morning,
I am truly very supportive of and enthusiastic about the wonderful variety of spices and special products available from the Savory Spice Shops. I don't know whether it's possible to ask for a certain spice blend to be introduced (or considered for introduction), but I am partial to the combination of orange (and orange peel) and mocha. I'm not sure whether this is a potentially popular or appealing blend, but, if you would consider offering it, you would make, at least, one customer very happy! Thank you for letting me offer my request.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Great! I love the new design and packaging.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Excited about these changes! Love the shop and looking forward to new ways to shop here.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Next time you do a label run, please consider making sheets of stickers in your branded colors, about the size of the top of a small spice jar, so I can color code my lids to more-easily find yummies in that hard-to-see second row in my spice cabinet. If you don't want to take the time to have the stickers pre-cut, print up sheets of colors and I'll cut them out to suit my needs, or make PDFs available and I'll print them at home on the ol' color printer. Thanks!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Wish you would reopen a bvb store in Atlants. Miss the store in the Highlands
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I have been a customer for a long time and the new labeling sounds great. However, I can't get behind listing volume instead of weight. :/
MollyMartin (registered user)
on May 16, 2018
Molly from the Savory office here - re: the concern about using volume as our new reference for sizing vs weight, the net weights will still be listed for all products so you will still be able to use that when considering how much spice you need to purchase. Hope this alleviates your concerns!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I hope you will continue to have spices available in small and large quantities by weight, in addition to adding your new by-volume option. I have always loved being able to come in and get a very small amount of something new for special recipes I want to try out.
MollyMartin (registered user)
on May 16, 2018
Re: the option to buy smaller quantities, 1oz bags and refills will still be available in stores.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I love my Bend, Oregon Savory Spice Shop and Matt! The changes you are making to the labels and your packaging are great. I will continue to shop for my spices at Savory Spice Shop!!!!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I also do not use seasonings by volume and do not want to buy by volume. I rarely want multiple cups of any seasoning or spice other than maybe salt.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
What a frosty idea! (That's cooler than just 'cool') I second the request for a PDF of 'lid labels' to print at home.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Love this store. When are you coming g to Canada!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I, too, would appreciate top-o-the-lid labels. Many of my most frequently used spices and herbs are stored upright in a narrow drawer next to a cooktop, and it’s a pain to have to lift out several jars before finding the one I need.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Would you please release a line of spices that are certified Organic. I don't buy food products that are not, and this includes spices. While i understand the need for increased pricing on such products my health and those of my family are important and actually save money long term by reducing health care costs related to consumption.
I appreciate all you do and striving to bring a better product to market.
I appreciate all you do and striving to bring a better product to market.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I have been a customer for several years and EVERYTHING I have purchased is loved and used on the regular. Love these new changes. Fantastic ideas all around. Looking forward to purchasing more items for my personal use and for gifts.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I don't get the concern of selling by volume. While a handful of recipes I have do use measurements by weight...grams, ounces...most are by volume...teaspoon, tablespoon, cup. Also when ordering new herbs or spices I'm not familiar with, buying by weight on-line is difficult not knowing how light or heavy a product is. But a cup is a known amount regardless of weight. I've ordered by weight before and have at times gotten less volume than I expected or way more than expected/needed. So I applaud this change, especially given that the weight will also be on the package for those that prefer that.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I also buy and eat only Organic and would love to see your store in Bend have a full organic line. I haven't shopped your store much but would if there were organic choices.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I love the Arboretum store in Austin TX, and the staff there are super friendly and helpful. Happy that I can still purchase the smaller 1oz bag to try new spices, but appreciate that some people may like to buy by volume. We all have our preferences. I would also love to see labels for the lids. Definitely would help in organizing my spices. Love the idea of color coding. Hopefully I can get new labels for my existing spices!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
The idea of standup bags is nice, but this change comes right when I've started a personal drive to buy less plastic, especially that which isn't recyclable.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Volume? Really? Who does that? Did you even ask your buyers what they thought of buying spices by volume instead of weight? Very disappointing.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I, for one, applaud the use of volume on the spice labels. Since both weight and volume will be listed, everyone should be able to buy exactly the amount they want. I have bought spice blends for some favorite recipes I've found on the web site, and depending on the blend, if I need 3 tablespoons for example, I have no idea how many batches of a recipe I can make given a 1 (or 2 or 4...) ounce bag. I will find the volume amounts very helpful. Thanks, Savory Spice, for all the fabulous blends and super-fresh spices and herbs you provide, and for continually coming up with fresh new ideas!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
i've read the emails from people who say "i do not cook by volume." well, i have a favorite recipe that calls for a certain spice by volume, like 1/4C, and it will be nice to know that when i buy a bag containing a cup of a spice i can make that recipe 4 times.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Excited to see the changes but also have to second the user who mentioned she isn’t trying to cut back on plastic. It’s a major bummer we can’t refill the jars we already buy there! Especially when the employees doing the filling, reducing potential sanitation issues. Would love to see this option in the future!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Hi, I need the spice names on the tops of the jars so that when I open my spice drawer I can see the spices. Can you do that too? Big thanks!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Will the new labels be available for customers to put on the jars they already own? Otherwise, a new color coded system isn't very helpful for those of us who mainly come in for refill bags.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Volume NO! Any chef will tell you spices need to be fresh. Replaced as used; not when the jar is empty. This is a poor decision to please occasional, home cooks. One more reason I continue to shop less at Savory than I used to. I used to look forward to buying what I needed; not being forced to by a jar that just went bad.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I really like the new changes coming and have no problem with any of it. Volume sounds fine. People know how much of something they're purchasing so the volume versus weight on bags should be fine. Labels in the different colors sounds great to me. I look forward to seeing them.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I'm glad the people who work at the stores aren't as whiny as the customers online. Love Savory Spice!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I live nowhere near any of your stores. Can you clarify on the weight/volume thing?
Will I not be able to ship like I used to or are the pages and listings just going to list both when I select a product?
Will I not be able to ship like I used to or are the pages and listings just going to list both when I select a product?
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I have been buying your spices since moving to Colorado in 2012. I cook/bake a lot and have always used spices and trust me, I don't buy from anywhere else. when using these spices they not only smell like they should but also taste. I purchase from the Lowry store and they are always so friendly and helpful; besides where else can you open a jar, smell and taste before purchasing. What a concept. Thank you
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Wow, people-- Did any of you even read the entire blog??!! It very clearly states that spices will still be labeled with the net weight. I completely agree with the writer who mentioned that it is difficult to determine how much of a spice or herb you are going to get when you order by weight due to the difference in "heaviness" of each item, whereas a cup is a cup no matter what you purchase. It's a bit shocking to see how rude some of these comments are.
Thank you Savory for the changes you are making and for providing customers with an excellent array of products to "spice" up our food.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Shout out to Matt, owner of Savory Spice in Bend, Oregon. He brings passion to his job and to life.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I've been going to the Savory Spice Shop in Fort Collins Colorado for a little over 3 years now.....maybe four....My son and I have got so many different spices... We just LOVE LOVE LOVE THE SPICE SHOP....
My neighbor has never been...so this week we are going to take her to the Spice Shop.... yes I think she's going to love it just as much as we do.... thank you so much and see you soon Fort Collins SPICE SHOP
????????????
My neighbor has never been...so this week we are going to take her to the Spice Shop.... yes I think she's going to love it just as much as we do.... thank you so much and see you soon Fort Collins SPICE SHOP
????????????
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I love Savory Spice Shops. and the Spice of the Month Club.
Quick question about the new labeling, will there be different colored tops on the jars to match? or maybe just a round colored label. All my special spices are in a treasure box I keep in a cool dark place. be nice to open the box and see without picking up each jar.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Looking forward to the new labels. Simetimes I spend more time than I should looking for a particular bottle. Some may say I have way too many but I like to have a variety to choose from ????. I am also looking forward to the new bags.....and the volume notation is going to be very helpful. The girls at The Arboretum store is awesome
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I LOVE the new look! It's like a fresh version of the Savory Spice I've known and loved for the last 10 years. I know that a lot of professional chefs and bakers are used to weight measurements but when I found out that your jars were a 1/2 cup, it was a total eye opener for me and made it MUCH easier to understand...so I'm excited about being able to shop this way. I can't wait to see (and buy!) your new gift sets too because I'm sure they will be beautiful too.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I love your stores! I've been shopping at Savory for about ten years since I discovered your Boulder store. Thank you for keeping the classics and inspiring with new combinations!
My spices live in a deep kitchen drawer with just the lids showing. Any chance of providing the option of lid labels for your spice bottles?
I second earlier feedback about reducing my plastic consumption. I'm less likely to purchase these products than something in glass, or a recyclable material.
Thanks for all you do!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Just replenished my Savory supply last week at the best Spice shop in Saint Petersburg, FL - Paul and the staff are always great and we enjoyed the cocktails and brunch event last week. Keep up the great work!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
How can anyone complain about showing the volume on the packaging? I have never seen a recipe with the weight of the spice prescribed. Besides, both are shown. Buying on line volume, (TBS, tsp, Cups) is precisely what I want to know. Thanks for expanding convenience and coding !! Go, Arboretum !!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
More power to you!! I first found you by chance on Platte Street during a girls out day with some friends. When you added your Littleton store, I was dancing in the street!! I appreciate the staff's willingness to help me with large quantities of spices for our Baklava business. It is always my pleasure to share a lot of your spices with friends along with your business's contact info. People that have not had the experience of using spices of the quality that you provide, have no idea what they are missing! The adage that goes - to really grow you need to constantly change- is so true. Through the changes you are making, you are showing your desire to become better and in more likelihood bigger as time goes on. I have no doubt that your quality of product will consistently be at the top of the scale. I don't think I'll ever buy anywhere but Savory Spice!!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
So, are you only selling spices that are bagged rather than in a bottle in the near future? If you're going to a "Costco" model (volume), I'm afraid you've lost a customer. I'll pay extra for the bottle rather than wasting the volume of spices in a bag. Plus, given the bag can hold more air, I would surmise that the spices would oxidize and get old much faster than if they were in a bottle.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Innovation & progress! Congrats!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I wish you would move to Aspen Grove and not stay in downtown Littleton... your new neighbor restaurant has made it implausible to park near your store; otherwise you'd see me more often.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Volume? Yes please. I have no idea how much a Tablespoon of herbs weigh vs a T of seeds.
Just make sure I can still get small amounts. You *know* I come back for more when I like something and use it quickly.
Just make sure I can still get small amounts. You *know* I come back for more when I like something and use it quickly.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Congratulations on the exciting changes. I hope they help ensure your continued success!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Please, please do not give up the small bottle for spices! I love to try new combinations out, but cannot use the next size up before they are out of date.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Doing business with you since you opened.
Both personally and for the restaurants I ran in Winter Wointer Park. Open a store here in Tucson please as in love to room your store
Both personally and for the restaurants I ran in Winter Wointer Park. Open a store here in Tucson please as in love to room your store
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Oooh, I still have some of those kraft-paper labels in my spice closet as well (Refilled, of course, not stale!).
I applaud your decision to *add* volume to your weight labeling and am horrified by the downright rude comments made by some of your customers. I may be a lowly home cook, but there's nothing "occasional" about preparing daily meals for my family. I have rarely needed to add a spice or seasoning to a recipe by weight. I bake by weight for sure, but I've yet to see an American cookbook recipe that calls for 17 grams of salt rather than a tablespoon. I also don't understand the mental leap from adding volume notation to selling stale spices? Whatever. I think you're great, I will continue to happily shop with you, and I just ran out of Cook County Charcoal Seasoning so that may be sooner than later. Congratulations on 14 years!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
The idea of volume amounts is intriguing, if the prices are in line with the before prices of weight. I have moved within the last year and in doing so, replaced my entire spice supply including new jars to fit the custom drawer/pullout in my new kitchen. The jars I purchased listed volume as determining size. The idea of labels is great. I do not use the lid type but am intrigued by colors as that may help us (my husband cooks a lot, too) to find things easier, or as a new way to organize. I would also like a chance at new labels with the new design, maybe extra as I restock my spice cabinet.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Since I store all my spices in a drawer I would love labels for the tops of the jars.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Sounds Great! I do have one question will we still be able to buy 1oz or 2oz etc of a spice like in the past at your stores?
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Love the upcoming changes, But mostly, love your store, spices and the great, helpful employees in Costa Mesa. Keep up the good work and the great tasting spices.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I especially like the suggestion which begins, " Next time you do a label run..." It would make the spice shelf a lot easier to manage and to find the "right" spice at a moments notice.:)
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Yes, I would love to see some certified organic spices and herbs!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
New sizing? Does this mean I can get a couple of pounds of Capital Hill? LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this spice and want to share but very selfish as well!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
As a recent customer stopping in at the Franklin Tennessee
Store, I am wondering if my bottles can be refilled at
The store?
Store, I am wondering if my bottles can be refilled at
The store?
(guest), on May 16, 2018
The new labels sound fun. I do alphabetical in my cupboard, may have to change to color/A-Z.
I hope one day you have smaller jars so we can buy just a wee bit of the spice we use least often - sage for me.
All the best!!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I love your stores - started out buying at the downtown Denver store and now use the Littleton store. Please, in the future, consider a north store other than Boulder or Ft. Collins. I am glad to know that I will continue to be able to buy small amounts of spices/herbs. Having both wt. and vol. measures and the introduction of color coding will be very helpful. I have purchased spice bottles in quantity and would also appreciate sheets of labels that I could re-use. Thank you for the quality products you sell and the friendly and knowledgeable staff at your locations.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Re: "Novice" Cooks and Weight v. Volume.
First off, Hooray for the switch to volume. When I want to refill my jar of allspice berries or pink peppercorns, I'm going with volume. I'm not about to start google searching the average weight of a cardamom pod.
Second, yes... most recipes are in volume. Shame on you for discouraging "novice" cooks. Pretentious statements like that might inflate your ego, but our culture is lacking in home cooking. If you're a pro you should be able to translate volume into weight without much difficulty (besides, it's still being listed). Let the labeling be easier for folks who aren't "experts" like you. Personally, I'm proud of anyone that picks up measuring spoons instead of logging on to Grubhub. Who cares if they don't have a kitchen scale, they aren't inviting you over anyhow.
Finally, cook like your grandma, ya wiener. If you're so fussy that "a little of this and a dash of that" isn't good enough, you're doing it wrong. I get it: you're baking, you want your flour by weight, I hear that, it's important... but who cares if you've got a quarter oz of paprika v. a tablespoon, v. 3 big pinches? Being so inflexible ignores the reality that you are transforming naturally produced, imperfect, unpredictable ingredients into something pleasing (and perhaps nutritious). The real "novice" is the cook who can't play in the kitchen. The one who doesn't understand the rules well enough to goof with them.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Austin Arboretum is my store, and those people are unfailingly nice, helpful, and knowledgeable. I don’t care one way or another about volume vs weight. Although for canning and pickling purposes, it does matter. I just use spices until they are gone, despite what everyone says. Great idea to color code.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Congrats on your anniversary and I appreciate the changes you will be making.
Want to tell you that I love the Lincoln Square (Chicago) store and your staff there. They have always been very helpful in assessing what to choose and they are a pleasure to do business with. Keep up the good work!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Congrats on the changes! You guys are awesome and I wish you every success!! :)
(guest), on May 16, 2018
This is WONDERFUL news! I have been shopping at the Platte Avenue location every since it opened. Does anyone remember Janet's cooking show? Janet and Mike are well-versed in spices and I'm extremely glad to know their business has grown and changed in a myriad of ways!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Before hyperventilating about the switch to volume labeling, re-read the announcement.
It clearly states that the weight AND volume will BOTH be listed on the container. You can still purchase small amounts from bulk as before.
Everyone should be happy!
It clearly states that the weight AND volume will BOTH be listed on the container. You can still purchase small amounts from bulk as before.
Everyone should be happy!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Please Come to Arizona!!!! Love your products!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
As one who's worked in kitchens for over 20 years i cringed when I read 'volume'. Can I still come in and ask for an ounce of Greek oregano and get it? I absolutely love Savory and have over 30 bottles/bags in my pantry so please don't take it too personally when I say this feels dumbed down and unsophisticated. Love the colored labels. I prefer the flat bags because they take up little space when stacked in my small pantry cupboard. Thanks for reading and for all the incredible fresh spices, you are the store people didn't know they needed!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Love the stores -- only source for spices (that I can't grow, anyway). New package design looks good. Volume helps as I store in jars and not all spices are the same density. Do keep the weight though.
Suggestion --- Could you add the SOURCE of the spice on the label, please? Would be good to know WHERE the individual spice is from. With more of the big stores moving growing to cheaper (and less savory) countries, it would be good to know.
Thanks
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I love your products! I love all of your ideas too. I have moved to New Zealand and even tho I also am doing what I can to reduce using plastics, I can order bags of spices instead of glass jars to reduce the weight and also the risk of breakage. Listing volume as well as weight will be extremely helpful to me since I can no longer come in store and see the size of the package I am choosing. I'm unable to find anything like your spice blends here in New Zealand so I'll be continuing to purchase online. Thank you for your wonderful products!
mikejohnston (registered user)
on May 16, 2018
HI all- Mike here. Thanks for all the comments and feedback. I want to address a few of the concerns that were brought up.
First, the photo below is of 3 products (parsley, granulated garlic and Himalayan pink salt) that all weigh 4 ounces. As you can see, the parsley fills our biggest bag (7x10 inches), whereas the salt can easily fit into our smallest bag. When we’ve had complaints in the past, it has been from customers who unintentionally received a giant amount of parsley. By changing to volume packaging, with the net weight still indicated in ounces, we can give everyone a clear indication of the amount of spices they will be receiving. This is only a change to our bags as our jars have always been volume based with net weight indicators: ½ cup jar (4 fluid ounces) or 1 ½ cup jar (12 fluid ounces).
One ounce bags and refills for our ½ cup and 1 ½ cup jars will still be available for most products, by request, in our shops.
Regarding organic spices, we do have a line of spices that are organically sourced. What this means is that they are grown and processed organically and then packaged and sent to us. However, once we open the container they come to us in (which we need to do to distribute them to our shops and package them as you need), the FDA no longer allows us to call them organic on the front panel of the label. Just opening that package and putting it into another package ends the product’s organic labeling status. On our new labels, look for (ORG-S) for spices that are organically sourced.
For those of you requesting replacement label for your spice collection, we appreciate the feedback and will be discussing how we can offer this option to our customers.
Lastly, it looks like we need to work out an option for all you out there that want circular labels for the tops of the jars. I think we can come up with a downloadable PDF that will fit an Avery label. Thanks for the suggestion and we will let you know when that becomes available.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I like the idea of adding both the volume and weight to the labels, although from reading the comments on here it's obvious that once again it's impossible to please everyone. I'm hoping that you do keep the small jars in the lineup, as there are a few things I don't use terribly often and having a smaller amount is a better value for me. What I love best about Savory Spice is the great variety of salt-free blends; my husband has to seriously watch his sodium intake, and I made up my own version of salt-free taco seasoning because the packages in the grocery stores have salt as the first ingredient. I made the switch to your company in 2016 when the owner of Penzey's went all liberal/progressive in his blog rants, not caring who he offended in the process. He had the right to voice his political views and I had the right to find another company from which to buy my salt-free seasonings. So here I am!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Volume vs. weight doesn’t really matter to me.
It’s the ability to buy in any size amount I wish.
I do hope that your new bags are still zip-seal.
Please keep up with you stock of “pure” spices and herbs.
I seldom buy any premixed products as I prefer to make my own combinations.
Your color coding sounds cool and may help a lot if less experienced cooks. All my herbs and spices live in jars in the same large basket, and I don’t really need the color coding to suggest to me what each is for.
Your Arboretum store in Austin is the nest. Great staff!
Please don’t ever close it, I wouldn’t end up mail ordering from you since I prefer picking everything up locally and would so miss out on your good selection.
Thank you!
It’s the ability to buy in any size amount I wish.
I do hope that your new bags are still zip-seal.
Please keep up with you stock of “pure” spices and herbs.
I seldom buy any premixed products as I prefer to make my own combinations.
Your color coding sounds cool and may help a lot if less experienced cooks. All my herbs and spices live in jars in the same large basket, and I don’t really need the color coding to suggest to me what each is for.
Your Arboretum store in Austin is the nest. Great staff!
Please don’t ever close it, I wouldn’t end up mail ordering from you since I prefer picking everything up locally and would so miss out on your good selection.
Thank you!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Does this mean I will no longer be able to have spices weighed out when I need them? And will you have refills for both your smaller and larger bottles? One of the reasons I switched my spice buying to you company was the ability to get just what I needed, instead of a 4oz/1 cup refill bag which will last me years (and be flavorless when I finally finish it).
guest (registered user) on May 16, 2018
I first was in your shop on Platte right after you opened.... remember Michael upstairs working with herbs & spices. I could smell deliciousness as soon as I got out of my car. I now shop at Lowry because it is much closer to where I live. I only buy refill bags because I have collected more than enough jars to reuse. I trust whoever waits on me to tell me how much I need to fill a jar so selling by weight or volume is not an issue. I do replace the label on the jar each time because the used label ink rubs off with use. My only issue with that is getting the label off of the bag to stick on to the jar. There was a time when the labels were easy to take off, not any more. They will tear and I must use tape to hold them. That is something I would like to see rectified. Otherwise, Love Love Love all I buy and won't use any other brand. p.s. I also would love to see cap-top labels. I print out my out and tape them to the tops.....lol
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Congrats on the new innovations. I stay a local customer for all the great culinary reasons but also because you give back to the community. Thank you!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Over 12 years ago I visited your Denver store with my son. He was new in the area attending University of Denver Law School. He still resides in Denver and when ever I visit him I find an excuse to stop by your store... in the meantime, I order online. Thank you for your personal notes and the small samples that you include in the shipments. Best wishes for continuous success!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Could you please open a store in the Southern tier on New York.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
SavorySpice Shop in St Petersburg Fla. Is the ONLY place I go for my spices...great staff, friendly and VERY knowledgeable and helpful!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
For all the morons who didn't bother to read the details and instead chose to freak out about volume, NOTE: "Although the net weights will still be listed for all products so you will still be able to use that when considering how much spice you need to purchase."
So, chill the fk out, eh?
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Shopped at the Encinitas store for many years. Was surprised and saddened when it closed recently. Was even more saddened when I inquired about the closing and was basically told, "Sorry. Want us to take you off the mailing list?" Not great marketing, guys. P.S. The nearest store is now a 2-hour drive away. Any plans to open more Southern California stores?
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I am an advid home cook and a big fan of your species, however I have had to look for other sources of spices since you no longer carry organic, or have reduced it so drastically. I am willing to pay more for organic spices as others are as well and it’s so disappointing that I can no longer shop in your store or on line. I love the store in Westfield, NJ was a loyal customer for many years.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Can’t wait to see the volume for saffron. Like the color coded labels & will get some colored sharpies for the jar lids. Like both your Bend & St Petersburg stores.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I seriously do not understand the "uproar" about switching to volume selling. I've been reading cookbooks all my life and I've yet to see a recipe that calls for addition of spices by weight; other ingredients yes, but not spices. Furthermore, dismissing " novices" and "home cooks" for needing volume measurements (1/2 tsp., 1/4 cup etc.) Is rude but also demonstrates pretentiousness. A truly advanced chef isn't even measuring anymore. Selling by volume has many advantages (mentioned in other posts). I appreciate being able to buy a 1/2 cup of a spice because i know my container holds 1/2 cup. The only possible legitimate concern is whether we will be able to buy small amounts of spices because we only need a small amount for a recipe. That is the problem with a competitor spice shop where I've had to purchase 3 ozs when i've only needed a few tablespoons (probably an oz worth). So, the question would be, what is the smallest amount of spice we can buy (either by weight or volume)?
Thanks for your amazing products, your helpful staff and your love for making this world a tastier place!!????
Thanks for your amazing products, your helpful staff and your love for making this world a tastier place!!????
(guest), on May 16, 2018
The cosmetic changes you describe are nice but they aren't necessary. Improvements in the safety of your packaging would be much more welcome.
I agree with the person who asked for an organic line. I, too, do not buy anything unless it's AT LEAST organic. Beyond organic and biodynamic are much cleaner.
Although I frequently buy spices in bulk, I prefer not to buy things in plastic. I don't even want a plastic lid on my jar. I inadvertently did a test storing some in a glass jar with a plastic lid and some with a glass lid and the one in the glass lid stayed fresh much longer.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Congrats on all of the new changes and continuing to improve our spice experience. My favorite store was Newport Beach. When I worked at Sur La Table I would take my breaks shopping at Savory Spice. I now frequent the SoCo store. The staff is amazing there. Thank you.
Please provide us a link on your site with a PDF of the new jar labels. I just recently remodeled my kitchen including my spice cabinet and this would make my cabinet even more organized !
Love your spices !!! Thank you.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I LOVE the idea to sell your spices in foils or cellophane than in bottles, but PLEASE Do have a place for us to also purchase the jars as well if we care to do so. I think that the price does change the volume in a jar vs a cellophane than in the jars. The jars are heavier and they weigh a lot more when you send it, meaning the price goes up drastically. I would suggest for those who order from you all, is to buy what you like and MAYBE you can slip in a sample to try of something new, so we can get at least get a taste of a new product so we can buy more of it. Like for example, MY friend gave me some Honey Maple rub it was so devine I loved it now she buys it for me from your store in Colorado and has it shipped to me. I don't know where else I can finally get this at.. you do a great job and most of all Never leave us!!!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Congratulations! Love your operation—top quality products, friendly and very helpful service, and so pleasant to work with. Weight or volume doesn’t matter to me. It’s the superior quality that counts. Hang onto the Southern Spain Pinchito spice blend. It’s my secret ingredient. I always get the “can I have the recipe” question when I use it. But I confess I leave the SSPS out. Love to hear friends say “mine just doesn’t taste as good as yours. All the best and keep up the good work.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Bravo! Weight and volume--people can choose what they want when purchasing and cooking. I like the color codes too. And the new standup bags. You are definitely on the right track with your innovations. Cheers!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Personally, I have liked every spice that I purchased in your store. I do not cook a lot, but I am glad that I will be able to purchase the small quantities needed without having an overabundance of spices that will probably go back because they are not used for years. I look forward to returning to your store to purchase more spices.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Please do not switch to volume. Bakers, for instance, are accustomed to weight, not volume, and more and more USA bakers are using metric weight for increased accuracy and consistency. I may be an unusual customer in that I’m most familiar with the metric system. If your catalog lists volumes I’d have no idea how much I’d be buying. The conversion from ounces to grams is something I can do in my head, but cups and fractions of cups aren’t so easy.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Perhaps I missing the volume vs weight issue. Unless you are a baker or the prep is very specific - most chefs use a pinch of this, a scoop of that, a sprinkle, etc. And tasting throughout the process ensures that it is appropriately spiced. How much does a pinch weigh? What's the volume of a scoop? How many cooking shows have you seen where the chef has his/her measuring spoon set out? The value of Savory Spice is that when you buy it is fresh and you can get the amount you need. Gee, when you're there, maybe you can just watch the amount being packaged and adjust by sight if there is not a specific volume or weight required and then for fun ask how much it weighs or what the volume is. Thanks for fresh spices close by in the amounts needed.
I agree that the jar top labels is a great idea. Maybe add a blank line so the purchase date can be listed by the customer too. I still have some spices from 1842 in some drawer somewhere I think!
Congrats on your evolution.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I am looking forward to the new changes! I like the idea of both the weight and the volume on the package. I hope the labels on the bags peel off as easy as they do now. I have plenty of jars of my own that I only buy in bags. I use the label on the bag to put on the jar if it does not have one already or to replace one that is worn.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
It's often quite difficult to know how much spice you are getting based on weight! I cook a lot, yet I still ended up with a bag of bay leaves about the size of small throw pillow through guessing. How much does one bay leaf weigh? How many bay leaves will I get if I order 100g? Do you know? Same with basil. Sent round an email to tons of friends asking if they'd like some! Honestly, that's a great idea -- too bad nobody seemed to take in the part where they explained that the packaging would have volume *and* weight noted, there are a lot of negative comments here.
I loved the shop in Denver when we lived there, and if we were there on vacation it would be one of my first stops. Glad you're working to continue to improve. Love your stuff.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I started shopping at the Platte Street store and it was quite the drive from Loveland. I was so excited when the Fort Collins store opened. Congrats on 14 years...my time flies.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Is the new packaging reusable? The only thing I dislike today, is the packaging footprint and that you can't refill. It would be amazing if we could do our part to reduce waste.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Innovation to keep up with demand is great however I thought the main theme was freshness. When you go to a larger quantity how long will they last; then we seem to go the wrong direction.
Love the variety that only your company seems to have though - kudos!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I fell in love with your spices and your store the first time I visited the Platte St store w/my sister (way back when). Then her girls grew up and some went to CU in Boulder and we found your store there. A year or so ago I introduced my husband to the store in Littleton when we were in town for one of the nieces' wedding. I live in TX so I don't get to visit as often as I'd like but was thrilled when you started selling online. I rarely buy any spices in the store around here any more so I'm always excited when it's "shopping day" here in
Texas. My only complaint (and it's a small one) is when I buy bags to refill my jars they always have a hole punched in the top making it a little hard to transfer from bag to bottle w/o spilling some on the counter. Has never stopped me from buying more though. Keep the good "tastes" coming.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I hope/wish the new bags are "odor" proof! I have transported home from a store before and the lemon peel ended up smelling like of the the potent herbs! the lemon never did smell like lemon again! I try to keep foil between bags to keep smell from leaching!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I really like the bags that stand up. I also like getting volume *and* weight. When getting something new to me, it can be hard to judge and I've been matching the 'jar size refill' to get a feeling for it.
On the person who left the other spice site over the owner rants, you have company.
(guest), on May 16, 2018
I'm excited for these changes! Having the option of purchasing by weight AND volume is wonderful! I love color coding and it never occurred to me to color code the lids myself! I already use stickers to write the name as all of my spices are upright in a drawer but would purchase them from Savory as I earned a C in handwriting. Thank you so much for considering designing a set we can print at home!
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Thank you for keeping the weight as well as volume. I would like to see your smaller 2 oz jars have a shaker top. The single teardrop hole is pretty useless.
Thank you,
Linda P
Thank you,
Linda P
(guest), on May 16, 2018
Have you thought about increasing the number of mixes you offer that do not have onion or garlic? There are many IBS suffers who cannot have either. There's a definite market for low FODMAP products. https://www.monashfodmap.com/i-have-ibs/research/
(guest), on May 16, 2018
On these new labels is the background different colors or the writing? You very likely will run into issues with color blind and low vision people if you made the font colors different and not just the background.
Janet (registered user)
on May 16, 2018
Wow! I'm thrilled with all of the comments and suggestions. It tells me that our customers feel a sense of ownership, and that is what we want...to be YOUR spice shop. We are reviewing them all and appreciate your input. Please continue the conversation, be kind to each other, and thank you so much for reading.
(guest), on May 17, 2018
Hello Savory Spice!
I love the Sonoma, California location and think the town where my mom lives in southern New Jersey is ideal for a Savory Spice shop. Will you be courting franchises again? I would consider giving up my "day job" to make it a reality (I'm a pharmacist)! Thanks for a great concept and product!
I love the Sonoma, California location and think the town where my mom lives in southern New Jersey is ideal for a Savory Spice shop. Will you be courting franchises again? I would consider giving up my "day job" to make it a reality (I'm a pharmacist)! Thanks for a great concept and product!
iloveautumn (registered user) on May 17, 2018
LOVE your ole Town Littleton store and stop in whenever I get to that part of town...the only suggestion I would like is for an "organic" line and for the glass jars to remain available for purchase! Thank you for such a wonderful product!
(guest), on May 17, 2018
I fell in love with Savory Spice when I found the sister shop out in Sonoma California. When I moved to Colorado, I was meandering around Boulder and found your storefront right off Pearl Street and I couldn't believe my luck! I love stopping in and seeing what's new! I'm so glad to see that you are still growing and changing and I would love to be a part of that! Keep up the good work! :D
(guest), on May 17, 2018
I was introduced to Savory Spice by a dear friend I was visiting in Littleton, CO. I am passionate about cooking and love what your spices add to my creations. Thank you for your creativity and for inspiring me to try new things in the kitchen!
(guest), on May 17, 2018
I absolutely love your store! I was beyond happy when one opened up in Old Town Fort Collins, I had been making the trek down to Denver just to get spices, but being able to walk down the street from where I work is amazing! I have been spreading the word among everyone I know to go to your store and they all tell me the same thing: They are amazed at how friendly the staff is, how clean the store is, how amazing the quality is and how terrific it is to be able to buy just the right amount that they need. I have friends visit from out of the state and they make sure to stop by Savory before they head back home since your spices are better than anything they can find back where they live. So, I send Blessings, Thanks and Hope that you will continue to prosper, innovate and find Joy in your endeavors!
(guest), on May 17, 2018
I still have original kraft paper labels on many of my spice jars! Love Savory! Happy for your success.
(guest), on May 17, 2018
Hello, This question is for Mike and/or Janet Johnston. First off, thanks for taking the time to respond to your customers and thanks for what u do! When I initially went to my local store I inquired about organic spices/seasonings. I saw the ones specifically noted as organic, but I was told by one of the store clerk/rep that the listed organic spices are certified organic, but ALL of the spices in the store are considered organic, free of chemicals & pesticides. It was further stated that all of the companies u source from utilize all organic practices & no chemicals, but are just not Certified Organic. Is this correct info or not?
2) When I've inquired about what type of salt is used in spice mixes that contain salt, no one ever knows or they will just say regular salt. Some of your spice mixes indicate kosher, etc, but the majority of them do not. Is it possible to indicate in your mixes whether or not it is celtic sea salt, pink him salt, kosher, or table salt? If not, that is fine, but is there someone in the company that I can call that will know the answer? Thanks for your time!
(guest), on May 17, 2018
As someone who buys via mail (since you aren't in WY yet!!), I will cross my fingers that I can still get refill bags in smaller amounts, because I like to use the smaller bottles and refill them. That way, I can have more spices in my small apartment! Thanks for being awesome, and your Colorado Springs store rocks (my hometown and where I order from).
(guest), on May 17, 2018
While you're making changes, would you also please consider getting better shaker tops? The current black ones never close properly, after first use. The tiniest granule of product that gets caught around the opening prevents the lid from staying closed--no matter how much I brush it clean, which is, by it self, a pain to have to do every time..
Love everything about your products--except those crappy lids. Thanks!
MollyMartin (registered user)
on May 17, 2018
To the commenter above with questions for Mike and Janet, you can email us at savory@savoryspiceshop.com and we'd be happy to provide you with more information. Thanks!
(guest), on May 17, 2018
Lid Labels!!!! What a fantastic idea! We live in an RV for several months each year... and my husband (handy as he is) built me a spice rack with sliding drawers just the right size for your bottles. But, I have to lift them out of their space to confirm I have the correct spice... so lid labels would be PERFECT!
(guest), on May 17, 2018
no one reputable sells herbs and spices by volume... only weight. Volume is a very modern way to hide per pound prices to compare and shop... shame on you...
(guest), on May 18, 2018
Exciting news!! Personally I prefer weight to Volume but I understand the appeal.
(guest), on May 18, 2018
I can always locate my spices quickly and easily because I alphabetize them and store them on single or double layer turntables in a kitchen cabinet. A dot of paint on the edge of a turntable shows me the beginning and end of that turntable. For example, Allspice - Cinnamon. Cloves - Lemon Pepper. Extras or un-ground spices are stored in the center of the turntables where I can easily find them.
(guest), on May 18, 2018
KEEP CALM & COOK ON
Long Live Savory Spice! ;-P
(guest), on May 20, 2018
The last time I checked, labeling by volume vs weight doesn't change the quality and amazingness of Savory Spice products, does it? Because that's the reason I buy here. My last online order came with a hand-written thank you note from Lola in Santa Clara and it completely made my day (thanks, Lola, for taking the time out of your day to make mine!). That's the type of gesture that keeps a customer for life. Good luck finding that kind of customer service at many other places! If you do, gosh I sure hope they measure by weight for you. LOL
(guest), on May 21, 2018
I am not sure why there is such a hullabaloo around the volume versus weight thing, although I do prefer weight myself. What I DO want VERY much is to be still able to buy a small (2 oz) ziploc bag of any spice I want. I have lots of your herbs and spices. There some things that I have larger amounts of but I tend to buy and use 2 oz and then buy another 2 oz or more if I will be using a lot in the future. I will not be happy if I have to buy larger amounts now. Who in the world uses 2-3 cups of spice unless they are a professional or from a large family??
(guest), on May 22, 2018
After accidentally having a friend by 8oz of oregano (yes, still have much of it left) I'm looking forward to having volume on the label!
(guest), on May 22, 2018
Love Love Love your new packages. I'm going to have to redo my spice rack to height of the packages. Great idea for volume and color.
(guest), on May 23, 2018
I love Savory Spices. I used to live in Littleton CO where I was introduced to Savory in downtown Littleton. I’ve since moved to Chester NJ and so glad there’s a shop in Westfield NJ I love your new packaging idea, it will make shopping easier and will blend better with the blue box you introduced several years ago.
I’d like to make one recommendation about your black lids. They are difficult to close at times and living in a high humidity state it’s important to be able to close them properly or the spice will clump. Hope it might be able to improve on that. Thanks. I love your products and I’m a huge fan. Keep up the good work!
I’d like to make one recommendation about your black lids. They are difficult to close at times and living in a high humidity state it’s important to be able to close them properly or the spice will clump. Hope it might be able to improve on that. Thanks. I love your products and I’m a huge fan. Keep up the good work!
(guest), on May 23, 2018
Put me down as one who does NOT want the new bag idea. I am a single person, cooking for myself alone. Unless it is the cocoa powder or one of the sugars, I do NOT need one cup, or even half cup, amounts of any spices or herbs at one time. Old expression, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" applies here. The new label designs are lovely, though.
Apart from this small glitch, I LOVE my Savory Spice Store in Colorado Springs, and the absolutely amazing staff, who take such good care of me.
Please, NO bags.
(guest), on May 23, 2018
This looks like a good idea! I like the idea of packets... take up less room. I THINK they'll be better for storage.
Also, glad to read the person's comment about Penzey's political rantings. I won't buy from Penzey's anymore either.
(guest), on May 24, 2018
I am a very dedicated customer to your Sonoma location and i for one am extremely upset that you are getting rid of our ability to purchase the small glass jars of spices. i have very little space in my kitchen and those jars were perfect. forcing your customers to purchase only the medium and large jars is outlandish.
(guest), on May 28, 2018
Hi! I have been a customer since visiting friends in Bend in 2014. I was overwhelmed by the aromas when I very first walked into your store! Now I buy through the mail to refill the 3 oz jars & try new spices. I doubt I'd ever buy in bulk, but, having that as an option may help some folks. My spices are on "tiered" shelves, so, I've started writing, in red ink, on the top of each label, preferred usage - then it's easy to recognize & I don't need to pick them up & read the side label...So, the color-coded labels will just look cool, but, not be of a benefit to me. Again, love your spices!
(guest), on May 29, 2018
One needs to think outside of the jar & the bag -these are but the vessels. It's what's inside each of them that really counts. So never judge a cook by the numerous jars & bags of Savory Spices in their cupboards & drawers. It is all the FLAVORFUL possibilities of what to cook that is most important ;-P
(guest), on June 04, 2018
Just a few comments from a regular customer who has over 130 of your spices/blends, a dozen of your extracts, and 4 of your cocoa powers on her shelves. You have totally ruined the look of your store. It was designed comfy-cosy country, and now I look at the product on the shelves, and it is scandinavian cold. You've created a visual oxymoron. In addition to being a very cold visual, the new labels are incredibly hard to read. And the new bag packaging, while nice to give as a hostess gift, is totally impractical for refills, which those of us who cook, come in for weely. Did you ever think to ask your CUSTOMERS what they would like to see different? To the business savvy, it looks as though you went in a panic to some marketing firm who knew nothing about your customers and then sold you this. Because you paid them a lot of money to do this, you feel like you need to implement it. Take a look at the spice markets around the world. Do they look cold and ultra modern or are they warm and homey? Your original idea was good. Why are you messing with success? I have a lot more to say, but I'll leave it here. A VERY DISSATISFIED CUSTOMER
(guest), on June 04, 2018
Looking for a new spice combo that a friend brought us from Sicily - caper salt. As indespencible as your shallot salt! It adds a tons of briny flavor to food. It could be a hit!!
We love your products and wish there was a store in the Northeast.
We love your products and wish there was a store in the Northeast.
(guest), on June 05, 2018
Very upset you are no longer going to be allowing us to purchase our spices in your small bottles. That is all ive purchased from you guys and they fit perfectly in my very small apartment. I also do agree that this seems rushed and are ruining the look and feel of your shop.
from,
a very dissatisfied costomer
(guest), on June 05, 2018
It is just two of us in our home, and I do not use a lot of spices at a time. I only like to buy small amounts and refill a portion of my existing jars. I will not buy unless I can buy by weight or a very small back. I would certainly not buy more than 1/4 of a cup at a time of much of anything. I also do not like the new labels. I love the look of one type of label on all of my jars, not the myriad of colors, etc. Please think about your customers first...most are seasoned cooks, not novices.
(guest), on June 06, 2018
To see a world in a grain of sea salt
And a heaven in a Savory Spice,
Hold infinity in the bowl in your hand
And eternity in the kitchen
;-)
(guest), on June 07, 2018
I was just about to place an order and was hoping to get small amounts of a lot of spices (like I've been able to order in the past) and now I'm only seeing that I can buy them in larger sizes......which is more than I will use AND costs way too much for me. I don't live near a store so going there to buy smaller bags is not an option. Super disappointed :(
MollyMartin (registered user)
on June 07, 2018
Hi, Molly from Savory HQ here!
To the person above who would like to continue purchasing in smaller amounts: please call our warehouse directly at 888.677.3322 and we'll be happy to help you. We are still offering smaller amounts via phone orders and in all of our locations.
If anyone else has specific feedback or questions, please reach out to our team at savory@savoryspiceshop.com
Happy Cooking!
(guest), on June 08, 2018
I am running short of two of my favorite spices, and have been hesitating to order as I was disappointed in having to order in the larger size, which is too much and no longer cost effective for me.
I was happy see the post from Molly from Savory HQ. I will see how ordering directly works.
Earlier this year I finally solved my spice storage problem (I have a very small kitchen) by purchasing Libby spice jars that fit in one of my kitchen drawers, so even a 1/2 cup bag would be nice (I don't need the jars).
(guest), on June 08, 2018
I still "love" how no one from company has said anything in their emails and update videos, let alone a response to anyone on the blog about the elimination of the small jars and how they are completely going away. and wont be able to be ordered even via phone. You should really have thought about your customers first.
(guest), on June 09, 2018
Gotta say, as a pretty new customer i'm really disappointed in the change. I've loved being able to spend a few bucks and get 1oz bags of spices to try. It isn't a huge commitment if I don't love something or if I want to give some to a friend to try. But this new labeling/packaging system makes me rethink this. Penzeys often has loads of free offerings so if I'm going to start shopping by volume, i'd rather continue keeping an eye on their Facebook page for all the free spices they give away. I don't need more jars to throw away but here we are I guess.
rapper450 (registered user) on June 19, 2018
I've been a customer for a few years now and have to say I am very disappointed that I will not be able to buy the small (1 or 2 oz.) envelopes of spices online anymore. I am in Minnesota, not anywhere near one of your stores, so will not be able to come in to buy them. I hope you rethink this just as I will have to rethink my purchases.
(guest), on June 30, 2018
Ive been a happy customer for years, right back from when there was only one store and my daughter, who was at college in Denver, took me to see this "awesome spice place". This is the first time I have ever complained. I'm a veteran cook and use your products exclusively, but I, along with many others, do not like herbs sold by volume. I like to reuse the bottles I have and order quantities that fit them. This cuts down on clutter, and - heads up guys - not all of us have large kitchens, larders with multiple shelves or a spare drawer as suggested! Now I have filled up my jar with the basil I recently bought, spilling quite a bit onto the countertop as I spooned it in and I still have to store the remainder in the 1 cup bag, which will sit around for oh, maybe 6 months or so until I need to refill the jar again, and there will STILL be stuff left. You should've alerted your customers by email this was going to happen and what the options were!
(guest), on July 01, 2018
I've loved this company ever since I switched from Penzy's (due to the blogging of the political views). The personal touches I receive from orders was one of the first things that impressed. I'm all about color coding and packaging - a very cool change. I will miss the ability to order refills in small amounts. Please consider 1/2 cup or even 1/4 cup options as for some items 1 cup will take FOREVER for me to use up.
(guest), on July 28, 2018
I continue to be disappointed by the changes in your packaging and store stock. Today at my local store front location there were fewer and fewer items for me to purchase by having store team members weigh out/measure out on request.... it was more and more pre-packs, fewer bottles, and it seemed like fewer “taster” bottles, and more spice mixes in stock than individual seperate spices.
These are all bad things! Part of the enjoyment of shopping in your stores was having staff measure out and package spices for me...it was about the interaction. The taster jars are part of the interactivity. That’s part of why I don’t shop for them on line. I can buy packaged spices anywhere.
I also have no desire for more premixed “designer” blends. Carrying some of your good old standard blends is fine, but don’t start moving more that direction. For god sake, let us think more for ourselves about what we want to combine.
As changes begin to make shopping in your store fronts more “ordinary “ you lose what made you so special to begin with, and we all might as well go back to the spice counters at Whole Foods or Central Market. I won’t ever be buying my spices mail order.
Please consider staying closer to your original concepts. That is what made your stores attractive to begin with.
These are all bad things! Part of the enjoyment of shopping in your stores was having staff measure out and package spices for me...it was about the interaction. The taster jars are part of the interactivity. That’s part of why I don’t shop for them on line. I can buy packaged spices anywhere.
I also have no desire for more premixed “designer” blends. Carrying some of your good old standard blends is fine, but don’t start moving more that direction. For god sake, let us think more for ourselves about what we want to combine.
As changes begin to make shopping in your store fronts more “ordinary “ you lose what made you so special to begin with, and we all might as well go back to the spice counters at Whole Foods or Central Market. I won’t ever be buying my spices mail order.
Please consider staying closer to your original concepts. That is what made your stores attractive to begin with.
mikey80126 (registered user) on August 03, 2018
I too have been a customer for several years and am quite disappointed that I can no longer buy smaller quantities of spices online anymore. I have loads of Savory Spice bottles, for which I typically only want to purchase enough to refill, but the new volume scheme in many cases has a lower limit size of 1/2 cup, which is in many cases MUCH more than I need to refill a spice jar.
More significant, is that in having to buy at a larger volume, results in a much larger price per unit. On prior typical spice purchases, I would order 10 or more refills at prices typically ranging from $5-10 per refill, but now half cup bags (the smallest available) often run $12-15. This provides much less utility and is cost prohibitive to me as a consumer. It seems this change is more tailored to convenience in packaging than in consumer needs. Yes, people do cook by volume, but few requires a half cup of spice so the change is rather moot from that perspective. Let's be honest, most people can figure out that 4oz of parsley is going to be a much greater volume than 4 oz of granulated garlic, confusion is the exception not the rule.
I have developed a great love for Savory, but this change feels like it's a more corporate and less personal change from a store that has always been consumer oriented. Other spice providers, which used to be my go to, still offer weight based pricing and smaller quantity options. I'm starting to think twice, and hoping that Savory takes all this feedback seriously.
(guest), on August 20, 2018
Hi! I just visited your store in Littleton today and was shocked by how bare the shelves were. What happened to everything? Bare spots on the walls, empty window displays, no gift box packaging, bare shelves with very little to choose from. I’m really disappointed. I’ve been a loyal customer for years and will now consider a different spice company. Prepackaged and blends I can buy at the grocery store for a cheaper price. Huge bummer. Hope you are fully stocked by the holiday shopping season. Good Luck.
(guest), on August 25, 2018
Yet another aspect of the changes that I find disappointing. Now you have discontinued something as basic as your hit yellow curry powder. Local store staff says, "sure we can mix that up for you from the medium yellow curry powder, but you will have to buy a full pound of it if we do. or you could just buy the Vindaloo"
Really? the Vindaloo isn't the same as the regular hot yellow curry at all. And like any of us needs a full pound and could use it up before it went stale. I'll either just buy the medium and figure out how to spice it up myself, or buy someone else's hot curry powder.
Too many standard or straight-up items are being discontinued and replaced with too many "custom blends". Many of us don't want you to think for us and make new blends up, we want the raw ingredients to make our own mixes, or to just use the ingredients on their own.
More changes are just making for more disappointments when I go to shop. it makes me sad after so many years of being able to find exactly what I need.
(guest), on September 07, 2018
Dissappointing. Service has always been pleasant. but you've dramatically increased your prices while attempting to draw attention away from this fact with your new packaging and sales by volume. Last year, a 4oz bag of roasted garlic was 4.55 ; $18.08 per pound. Now, a one cup bag, weighing 5.75oz is 9.50; $26.40 per pound; nearly a 50% increase in cost. An 8 oz bag of Hungarian Paprika was $8.95 last year. Now, an 8.5 oz bag is 12.95; a 36% increase per pound in one year. Are you positioning yourselves for purchase? I will still buy the 'hard to find' herbs and spices but there are just too many options for bulk/small bag purchases in the town that I live.
(guest), on May 16, 2018