Your patronage of the Co-op is so important to us. Creating a thriving Co-op that allows us to fulfill your needs, as pertains to our mission/vision, is a priority for us. It is for this reason that we are very excited to announce that we are in the initial stages of considering a greater downtown location.
It is essential to us that our customers, Owners and community members are part of the conversation and kept informed of the decisions being considered. We invite you to ask any questions, feel free to get involved in the process and share the exciting news with friends in the community. Thank you so much for all you do to support the Co-op.
Why is the Co-op considering a new location?
Our mission is to serve and connect our community through a thriving natural foods cooperative business. We want to be able to continue to do this for years to come. There are now fifteen grocers, including Whole Foods and Trader JoeÕs, within four miles of our current location. Unfortunately, this increased competition is making it increasingly difficult for the Co-op to thrive and fulfill our commitment to our Owners and community.
Why the greater downtown area?
When considering how we can help the Co-op thrive, the greater downtown neighborhoods present three favorable conditions:
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Lease rates and property values are less expensive, which would decrease the Co-opÕs occupancy costs
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There is a need for a full service grocer Ð so much so that some of the area qualifies as a USDA food desert, an amazing opportunity to provide a service to the community.
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The opportunity to find a more suitable site with more space and better parking
Have any location decisions been made yet?
No decision on one area or site has been made, and there are several sites under review. Due diligence is being pursued in order to evaluate those opportunities, and a market study is being conducted to identify the sales potential of those sites.
When would a new location open?
There is no immediate timeframe for opening the new location. We are in the initial stages of the project Ð listening to the needs of our Owners and community, considering locations and communicating with lenders, the City of Wilmington and community leaders.
Will the current Oleander location be closing?
Ideally we want to thrive in our current location. The proposed new location does not necessarily mean that the Oleander store will be closed but it will be difficult to maintain the current location without increasing sales back to previous volumes. The chart below illustrates how sales have declined with the increase in competition near our current location.
How can I help the Co-op thrive in its current location?
For those of you who find the current location desirable, the most tangible form of support you can show is increasing your shopping at the Co-op. Anytime you are able to purchase from the Co-op, buy an Ownership or spread the word about what a great place it is, will help make a difference. We so appreciate the support and love!
How can I get involved in the process?
We plan on having an Owner meeting in the near future to elaborate on progress, and ensure the process is as inclusive as possible. Look for a meeting invite via email or on our Events Calendar in the coming weeks. We welcome all thoughts and suggestions, please feel free to comment in the Facebook feed below to become part of the conversation and help your Co-op thrive!