As I scratch my head in an effort to figure out the AIG bonuses and wonder how the economic stimulus is going to impact my life and business, I can’t help but think about what makes real economic sense to me.
Over the last 20 years, we have run an economy based upon who can supply the lowest price, not considering social and environmental impact. Our race to the bottom is finally coming to a head, our economy and unemployment the worst since the Great Depression.
What part can we play in the solution? A reconnection to our local community and the food and other products it can supply is the first step.
I am proud and excited to be a part of a group bringing Company Shops Market Co-op to downtown Burlington.
Company Shops will be a different kind of grocery store, one that sells as many food products from local farmers and food processors as possible. The co-op will also provide a catalyst for the revitalization of downtown Burlington.
In a world where food travels 2,500 miles before it reaches your plate, Company Shops will provide food that is grown or raised within 250 miles. The store will be owned by the community, run by the community, and will keep the money in the community by supporting our local farmers.
Though our work is far from complete, I want to thank the members of our board, who have dedicated thousands of hours from brainchild to reality. I also want to thank our 750+ owners for their support and patience, and I hope that we can reach our goal of 2,000 owners by store opening.
Considering what we’ve seen on Wall Street in the last few months, this could not be a better time to invest locally, with people you know, in a building you can see, and the community where you live. On April 4th from noon to 3pm, we will have an open house at the future location of Company Shops Market. I invite you to come be a part of something very special.