Indies news: Summer reading, bike rides and lunchboxes

Grocery stores are like people—they come in all different shapes and sizes. And here at The Local Checkout, I’ll be taking a closer look through a wide lens of independent grocery stores. Because just like people—they all matter.  

Food system for all

One of Seattle’s original grocers, PCC Community Markets, on Thursday unveiled the PCC Inclusive Trade Program, a new product standard designed to increase awareness of and support for businesses owned by individuals who identify as members of historically and currently excluded communities.

“As a result of historic and continued prejudice, these communities are deliberately disadvantaged and face barriers in starting businesses and expanding market share,” said PCC Senior Director of Merchandising Justine Johnson. “The co-op's mission is to ensure that good food nourishes the communities we serve while cultivating vibrant local, organic food systems.

Participating vendors and suppliers are identified and celebrated through PCC’s in-store and online shopping experiences so consumers can select businesses and products from communities they wish to support or see themselves represented in.   

Lunchbox

Outpost Natural Foods, Milwaukee’s community owned grocery co-op, this week kicked of its Think Outside The Lunchbox summer fundraiser for Hunger Task Force, Inc. to help local families with children who rely on school meals as a part of their daily nutrition.  Shoppers are encouraged to round up their grocery total at Outpost to help the grocer reach its 2023 fundraising goal of $13,000. What a great way to remind people that hunger doesn’t take a vacation.

Summer reading

With it being the official start of summer, everyone is ready to grab their sip and curate their summer reading list. Here are two books that I recommend when it comes to insights on independent groceries: “Satisfaction Guaranteed: How Zingerman's Built a Corner Deli into a Global Food Community,” by Micheline Maynard.

The book offers a delicious take on the ups and downs of Ann Abor, Michigan’s beloved Zingerman’s. Word of caution. Eat before you read this. And if you live anywhere near Zingerman’s, please enjoy the #13: It truly is a sure choice.

Another more recent book to put on your list is “How Far Do You Want to Go?” by John Catsimatidis. The book chronicles the Greek American’s humble beginnings in the grocery business to an empire later known as the Red Apple Group based in New York City that owns and operates assets in the energy, real estate, finance, insurance and supermarket industries.

Great gift

Sonoma County-based employee-owned grocer Oliver’s Market introduced shoppers this week to its newest additions to the Oliver’s Own product collection—Oliver’s Own Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars.

“We are pleased to introduce these outstanding oils and vinegars to our customers,” said Shawn Reilly, Oliver’s Conventional and Specialty Grocery Buyer. “From the everyday Extra Virgin Olive Oil, to the single variety oils, the infused oils, and the outstanding balsamic vinegars, these delicious oils and vinegars will enhance every meal where they are used. The beautiful packaging and excellent quality also makes them a great gift.” Let the gifting begin.

Bikes and grocery

Bikers this month headed to RAGBRAI, Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, will have the chance to win a 50th Anniversary jersey thanks to Iowa-based Fareway. The giveaway is being held to celebrate RAGBRAI's 50th year and Fareway's partnership. Let’s ride!

Thanks for reading The Local Checkout. Got an indie grocery story news item you think I missed? Email [email protected]