Come Take The Tour!
We’re excited for you to see all the improvements that have been made in our recently expanded co-op.
As we like to say, 10 YEARS AND GROWING!
Before…and After
STORE EXTERIOR
The first exterior rendering (created by local design firm Blueline) you see was created in 2020, before construction began.
Here we are 9 months later, in March 2021, and the second photograph shows the exterior renovation is complete.
NEW PRODUCE DEPARTMENT
The produce department will move – the new area will be located as you walk straight into the store. The windows you see here to the right, are the existing windows on the east side of the store (under the awning).
NEW DELI, KITCHEN, AND CAFE AREAS
Right behind those new windows you’ll see our new light and bright cafe area. Just beyond that, you’ll see our expanded deli and bakery area, complete with hot bar and salad serving stations.
Construction for Expansion is Underway!
On June 1, 2020, the Co-op launched a three phase construction project that is expected to take about nine months to complete. Local companies have been hired to carry out the expansion. Harman Construction is the general contractor and Blueline is the architectural firm. Steve Cooke, the co-op’s general manager, will serve as Project Manager.
FUN FACT: Harman and Blueline were also the original partners when the co-op opened in 2011.
While the store will be under construction for some time, it will all be worth it when our new store emerges…!
We can’t wait and will share updates as we have them. Also, check our facebook page for updated photos of the construction process.
You can read more about the expansion plan in this recent WHSV-3 story.
Below you’ll find a drawing detailing the new layout. Note the grocery aisles will rotate 90 degrees and their will be new windows installed along the front side where the new café will be located.
Phases of Construction
PHASE I
Phase I will consist of annexing the former Teeny Tiny Spice Co. rental space that’s to the left of the co-op entrance. That space will be turned into new deli, kitchen, and café areas, with a new and improved coffee bar, salad bar, and hot bar.
The space will also be used to build new offices and add new storage shelving.
PHASE II
Phase II of the construction process will begin within the current sales floor of the store – including removing the wall behind the bulk foods shelf and opening up to the newly annexed space; putting in a produce walk-in cooler, sinks and prep area; moving the bulk foods area; and adding a larger meat case.
Later in this phase, the overall store configuration will change. The aisles currently running east-west will rotate 90 degrees (along with the lights and signage above them), to run north-south.
PHASE III
Phase III of the expansion will include moving the produce department from its current spot to the area in the front end of the store that used to house checkouts and the seating area; installing south-facing windows across the front of the store, which will be the new café area with seating; and adding a new office close to cashier stations.
