Residents of Bear River, Nova Scotia, have taken grocery shopping into their own hands after facing high prices, disappointing produce, and long travel times to reach the closest big-box grocer.
Here's what to know
"The Fiddlehead Market Co-op offers fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and dairy products, even some takeout options that are all locally sourced," CTV Your Morning anchor Anne-Marie Mediwake reported.
The village of about 1,000 people has built a grocery business with roughly 160 member-owners. Membership costs $100, and each member receives a single vote even if they hold multiple shares.
If a person can't pay for a membership, volunteering for five hours gets them one share. Roughly 60 volunteers assist with running the store.
A manager handles store operations under a board elected by members. That board is responsible for carrying out the co-op's mission.
Decision-making belongs to the membership rather than a single owner, explained board chair Drew Tozer. The co-op's bylaws also require it to maintain a commitment to the community.
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More background
Fresh produce and meat were difficult to find in Bear River before Fiddlehead opened, Tozer said, even though a small local grocer carried mostly pantry items.
Tozer also explained that Kentville represents roughly the farthest point along the Annapolis Valley from which the store sources goods. Much of that food comes from neighbors and farms within about a 10-minute drive, which is especially helpful since the nearest grocery store was about 25 minutes away before.
Local suppliers provide much of the selection, and some international products round out the shelves.
A modest markup is the basis for Fiddlehead's straightforward pricing, according to Tozer. Keeping groceries affordable is part of the store's operating commitment, alongside its work to improve access to fresh food.
What's being done?
The grab-and-go meals sold at the co-op include sandwiches, salads, and soups made from food shoppers might pass over because of its appearance. Tozer said kitchen staff put those less visually appealing ingredients to use.
Interest in the model extends beyond Bear River. Tozer has heard from people hoping to establish co-ops in their own small communities.
One commenter, who identifies as a Bear River community member, welcomed the growing interest: "We're thrilled to be part of a co-op renaissance — if you're thinking of making one happen in your community, this is your sign to go for it!"
"Co-ops used to be very common in rural Nova Scotia," another person added.
Where can I learn more?
Shoppers far beyond Bear River face high prices and long drives for groceries.
• In Texas, a couple opened a grocery store after neighbors drove 82 miles for avocados.
• In Eastport, Maine, the only grocery store is closing, leaving shoppers a 40-minute trip.
• In Manitoba, Canada, Giant Tiger's closure leaves shoppers bracing for higher grocery bills of 20% to 30%.
• In Pond Creek, Oklahoma, food-aid restrictions hit rural shoppers relying on the town's only SNAP grocer.
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