Well, the New Orleans Food Co-op is still homeless. But we are resuming full steam with finding the perfect home for our first grocery, and we are now in the first leg of our road map to a storefront. The image below describes our plan in general terms…

We are on this road right now, but there is nothing that says this is the only way it will work. As close as we have come in the past, and as much time as we have spent working and practicing on these ideas, we know that a start-up co-op storefront requires a strong engaged membership. Once this membership is built, the concrete work of finding a property, possibly refurbishing it and opening a storefront are just an exercise to be completed. As with all small businesses, just starting-up is less a part of long-term success than than the enthusiasm and skills of those involved. And in a co-op, the enthusiasm and skills collectively originate from the membership.

Basic requirements for a storefront

We are considering either renting or buying. In this post-Katrina environment, there is potential for buying property fairly cheaply, and getting volunteer labor to help with renovations. Other criteria to consider include a minimum size of 2000 square feet, parking, 18-wheeler accessible, the presence of commercial zoning and what type, and structural soundness. The target area surrounding the storefront must simply have enough members, and since membership is open to everyone, that could really be anywhere people are living in New Orleans.

We can’t do it without you!

There are several ways you can help with the search for a store location. If you see or hear of a space available that might meet the above criteria please send email to info@nolafoodcoop.org, and provide us with the location and contact info, if you have it. Even better, if you can join our Location Search Committee, then send us your contact info and we’ll let you know when the next committee meeting will be. Membership is also crucial to this entire process and our eventual storefront, consider becoming a member today and help spread the word to new potential members in your neighborhood.