FARMINGTON — The Farmington Food Co-op has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Greater Franklin Development Council’s Community Investment Fund to expand its fill-your-own bulk foods program and invest in staff training, helping the co-op offer more affordable, sustainable shopping options for the greater Franklin County community.
“Sound entrepreneurial planning deserves investment, but this is not always possible. We’re proud to support the Farmington Food Co-op’s continued growth. This investment reflects our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, strengthening local businesses, and supporting projects that create lasting economic and community impact throughout Franklin County,” Greater Franklin Development Council Executive Director Charlie Woodworth said.
The majority of the grant funding will be used to install and expand the co-op’s bulk food section, allowing customers to purchase everything from grains, beans, coffee, nuts, granola, spices, baking ingredients, and other pantry staples in the exact quantities they need. The co-op plans to feature products from a growing number of Maine producers, including Maine Grains, 44 North Coffee, GrandyOats and other regional suppliers.
Bulk shopping offers benefits for both shoppers and the environment. By eliminating much of the individual packaging associated with grocery products, bulk foods significantly reduce plastic and paper waste while encouraging customers to reuse their own containers. Purchasing only the amount needed also helps reduce food waste in the home.
Bulk foods can also be more affordable. Because products are sold without the added costs of individual packaging, branding and marketing, shoppers often pay less per pound than they would for pre-packaged alternatives. The ability to purchase small quantities also makes it easier for households to stretch their grocery budgets, try new ingredients without committing to a full package, or buy exactly what they need for a single recipe.
A portion of the grant will also support professional development and staff training, helping employees build expertise in cooperative grocery operations, merchandising, food safety and customer service. These investments will strengthen the co-op’s ability to serve the community for years to come.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Greater Franklin Development Council for investing in this project,” Amber Stone, general manager of the Farmington Food Co-op, said. “Expanding our bulk department is one of the most meaningful ways we can make healthy food more accessible while reducing waste. It also creates new opportunities to partner with Maine producers and keep more food dollars circulating within our state’s economy.”
The expansion reflects the Farmington Food Co-op’s mission to increase access to healthy, local and sustainably sourced foods while supporting the regional economy. By growing its bulk offerings, the co-op hopes to make environmentally responsible shopping more convenient and affordable for everyone in the community.
Construction and installation of the expanded bulk section are expected to begin later this year.
For more information about the Farmington Food Co-op, click here visit the store or follow the co-op on social media.
For more information about the Community Investment Fund click here.