Noted world traveler, anthropologist, and culinary gourmet Richard E. Gardner founded California-Antilles Trading more than 20 years ago.

“The company started in 1985 as a small import company, but today California-Antilles Trading is the supplier of high-quality giftware to some of America’s most upscale retailer merchandisers,” Gardner said.

Currently, the business retails a variety of gourmet specialty foods, such as hot sauce, salsa, barbecue rubs, marinades and organically grown coffee, as well as body care products, fine art and collectibles.

“The small company, which is run by a circle of close friends, is dedicated to the goal of bringing our customers useful high quality items at the very best possible price,” Gardner explained.

Since 1999, California-Antilles Trading has had its own online merchandising Web site, where most of the products offered can be found.

Gardner said he is a strong believer and supporter of locally owned, independent businesses and supports progressive candidates and issues. Additionally he promotes sustainable, ecologically safe farming, and he purchases from collectives or cooperatives whenever possible.