Our Story
Women Founded. Employee Owned!
MaMa Jean’s was established in December 2002 at 1727 S. Campbell by Susie Kawamoto and Diana Hicks. This full-service natural market was named in tribute to both of the owners’ mothers: “MaMa” Loweta Hicks and Jean Farbin. With a mission to bring local, organic, and natural foods to Springfield, along with a commitment to exceptional customer service, MaMa Jean’s was enthusiastically welcomed into the community.
Since opening their first store, Susie and Diana have watched their business grow from six employees to 150. They have continued to put down roots in Springfield with the addition of their second and third locations on Republic Road and East Sunshine Street. In December 2020, they relocated their original store to 228 W. Sunshine, expanding the experience with the addition of MaMa’s Cafe, featuring a full-service deli with options for keto, plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free lifestyles.
Today, MaMa Jean’s continues its legacy of growth and community commitment as a 100% employee-owned company. Employee ownership brings a new perspective to the everyday work of the MaMa Jean’s team. From caring for customers and supporting coworkers to growing sales, reducing waste, using resources responsibly, and finding new ways to improve the business, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to the company’s continued success and the value of employee ownership.
At MaMa Jean’s, we believe in giving back to the Ozarks, where our roots run deep. Our commitment shines through in our active participation in local events and our support of the vibrant community around us. Through our monthly Change for Change program, customers can make a difference by donating at our cash registers to locally based nonprofit organizations doing incredible work right here in our community.
As a 100% employee-owned company, MaMa Jean’s looks forward to building on its history of bringing people together through good food, exceptional service, and a shared commitment to our employees, customers, and the Ozarks community.
