A food co-op store, like the one in Middlebury, is being investigated in Ticonderoga. The town has received a Quality Communities Planning Grant from the New York Department of State to study the feasibility of creating a food co-op in the community.
continued — “CDS Consulting has worked with many co-ops, including the Middlebury co-op, and has developed a systematic approach to planning, implementation and new store projects,” Reynolds said.
Malaney hopes a Ticonderoga co-op can be similar to the Middlebury Natural Foods Cooperative. That store is open seven days a week 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Operated by a board of directors elected by membership, the Middlebury co-op emphasizes healthy foods, making a positive impact on the local economy and stresses environmentally sustainable and energy efficient practices.
The Middlebury Natural Foods Cooperative began in the early 1970s as a pre-order buying club. Its purpose was to provide members with wholesome, natural foods that were not available elsewhere. To maximize savings, members bought in bulk and packaged the food themselves. During the last 30 years, the co-op has expanded several times to include a store-front operation that is open to members and the public. It includes a prepared foods section and deli with indoor and outdoor seating.
At one time Ticonderoga had three commercial grocery stores. It now has one, Walmart.
Malaney said Ticonderoga officials have approached several grocery chains about locating in Ticonderoga, but have failed to attract any serious interest.
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