UNFI Update

By Kenna Eaton, GM

If you’ve been in the Co-op lately you have likely noticed the abundance of fresh local produce. This year, more than ever, I’m appreciating our local producers. Possibly that because during the UNFI disruption, we were struggling to fil the shelves, but personally I never lacked finding the basics of bread, cheese, veggies and coffee—oh, and wine!

But now the store is back to normal, I must admit I am happy every time we have a new load from UNFI—especially of the things I missed, like chips (my other weakness!). So, yes, shelves look more normal. Yes, we still get ‘out of stocked’ on key items. But then that is normal for our industry.

Thankfully, due to diligence of staff working hard and searching out other suppliers we weathered that storm well. And, thankfully, we didn’t lose money but managed to break even. However, it is a stark reminder of how fragile our food chain is, and the importance of investing into our local food system. Thanks again to all of our members for your support during those hard weeks—and thanks to all of you who continue to donate at the register to support our local producers through the Farmer Fund.

Coming this summer, there will be reports of farm visits by the Community Engagement Committee, the crew that awarded this year’s grants to 12 farms and producers.  We’re super excited to share those stories before launching into another round of applications later in the fall. 

With appreciation, Kenna