Villagers take control to keep grocers open

Jul 10 2009 By Dave Himelfield

Villagers take control to keep grocers open

VILLAGERS have rallied together to re-launch their local green grocer.

The Artichoke grocer, formerly Dakers, on Carr Lane, Slaithwaite, closed on May 29 after 40 years of business.

But immediately afterwards, villagers got together to form a co-operative green grocer, fishmonger, and bakery on the site.

The store, called Green Valley Grocer, is owned and run by villagers and local businesses, who all have shares and an equal say in the company.

The co-operative has been a success so far, with more than 100 shareholders with stakes of between £10 and £1,500 in the business. They include Kirklees Mayor Julie Stewart-Turner and Hartley’s developers, who own Globe Mill, across the street.

The business has now met its £15,000 start up costs and with volunteers decking out the shop, Green Valley Grocer could open as early as today.

Four paid part-time staff will be employed. The shop will stock ethically sourced and locally grown produce from fruit and vegetables to whole foods, flowers and fish.

Artisan bakers The Handmade Bakery, currently using a back room at Mozzarellas Pizzeria, Marsden, will become part of the Slaithwaite store.