The vibrant hills, rich equestrian heritage, ocean culture and serene outdoor lifestyle of Palos Verdes and the South Bay are integral to the region’s character. These elements are seamlessly interwoven, thanks in large part to the essential services and longstanding support provided by the venerable Lomita Feed Store.
Standing as a beacon of heritage and community for over a century Lomita Feed offers everything from a comprehensive range of feed and tack for regular and exotic animals and livestock to a curated selection of farm and garden supplies, the store serves as a one-stop destination for all things agricultural.
Serving a wide array of customers from small pet owners to ranchers, the store offers a full range of supplies for both exotic and regular animals. From hay, grains, and supplements to pet supplies, tack, and garden tools, Lomita Feed has it all and more is coming.
Founded by the Sikes family and later cherished by the Gibson family, this storied establishment passed into the hands of the Lockwood family in 2019, only the third owners in more than 100 years, ushering in a new era of dedication and innovation under the stewardship of Bill Lockwood.
“We have been busy. We are doing some remodeling and opening up the old store front. We are adding some fashion and tack and art. I’m looking forward to creating a rotating art gallery, a space to showcase local artists. Our mural is the first of its kind in the city and we brought back the sale of chicks which has been very popular,” says Lockwood.
For Lockwood, the acquisition of Lomita Feed represents a lifelong dream rooted in his family’s legacy. Growing up in Palos Verdes as a lifelong surfer amidst the scenic landscapes of the Peninsula, Lockwood’s passion for nurturing animals was kindled by his sister’s affinity for horses.
“There is a unique fusion in this area between the ocean and horses. It’s something you won’t find in the larger world. Both surfing and horseback riding are iconic, solitary endeavors. You can do both in groups, and they both have that edgy feel, like cowboys and surfers,” Lockwood says when talking about his vision for Lomita Feed. “My goal is to highlight the many commonalities between these worlds and bring them together.”
Under Lockwood’s leadership, Lomita Feed has undergone a remarkable transformation, embracing new avenues to engage with the community and celebrate its heritage. One notable addition is the striking mural adorning the store’s facade, a masterpiece crafted by renowned artist John Van Hamersveld, the creator of the iconic Endless Summer poster, Lockwood’s friend and a fellow Palos Verdes surfer.
“Paying homage to the Western and English equestrian traditions, the mural serves as a testament to Lomita Feed’s enduring legacy and its role in shaping the cultural tapestry of the region. It’s a triptych so there is more coming and it’s the first mural in Lomita,” he explains.
For over 100 years, Lomita Feed Store has been more than just a place to buy feed and tack; it has been a vital part of the South Bay community fabric and with Lockwood at the helm it’s poised to endure for at least another century.
“Getting up early to surf, and then when the wind picks up, going for a ride. Now that sounds like a good day,” he says, satisfied.
