Skip to Content, Navigation, or Footer.
We inform. You decide.
Friday, March 29, 2024

Gainesville gets new co-op grocery store

Grocery shopping is about to change in Gainesville.

The Citizens Co-op finally opened its doors last week. Located at 435 S. Main St., this grand opening has been long awaited.

For three and a half years, co-founder Elizabeth Nesbit, along with friend and finance manager Gretchen McIntyre, their families and the community have been working to open a cooperative grocery store.

Starting from scratch, the Citizens Co-op raised more than $200,000 and accumulated more than 700 members and co-owners, Nesbit said.

Members of the Citizens Co-op have several benefits, some of which include access to monthly sale items and a portion of the profits at the end of the year.

A lifetime membership costs $100, and students can pay in four installations of $25.

The store houses a variety of items and departments including produce, dairy, meat and seafood, bulk, teas and spices, and health and beauty.

Nesbit became inspired to open a co-op when she went traveling with her family and found that cooperative grocery stores provided a wealth of community information and fresh food.

"I wanted to establish a place where people can come hang out, feel welcome, learn about public events and eat well," she said.

Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox
Support your local paper
Donate Today
The Independent Florida Alligator has been independent of the university since 1971, your donation today could help #SaveStudentNewsrooms. Please consider giving today.

Powered by SNworks Solutions by The State News
All Content © 2024 The Independent Florida Alligator and Campus Communications, Inc.