The scoop

With growth of 175% this year over 2015, Bulk Nation has found a niche in the food industry.

The specialty bulk food grocer recently opened stores in Lakeland and Clearwater, with plans to open several more in Central Florida by year's end.

The chain's stores have 3,000 specialty foods, from hard-to-find items to classic favorites, that customers can buy in any quantity. The foods include an array of different types of exotic flours, seeds, spices, teas, coffee, cookies, dried fruits, granola, pasta and even dog treats.