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Dorchester Food Co-op, Boston’s only co-op grocery store, says it’s struggling to stay open
The store said in a letter that, unless the store has an increase in sales, its cash reserves will run out in two months.
Dorchester Food Co-op, Boston’s first worker and member-owned co-op grocery store, announced Friday that it desperately needs a boost in sales — or the store will be forced to close in just two months.
“We believe in a solidarity economy,” the store’s board of directors said in an Aug. 15 letter addressed to its member-owners. “Everyone is welcome to shop, and with your support, we will be able to keep the doors open longer.”
The co-op opened in 2023 in an effort to create jobs and make high-quality food accessible and affordable to residents. Its members and workers own shares of the business and are able to vote at board meetings.
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Unless it has an increase in sales, the co-op’s cash reserves for operational costs will run out in two months, the board of directors said in the letter.
The co-op is aiming to raise $500,000 to supplement sales for the next year, the letter says.
The letter listed ways the community can help prevent the closure, from making the co-op a “regular grocery stop” to placing a bulk or catering order.
The co-op requested its member-owners “spread the word” and pledge a monthly or one-time donation.
The store, located at 195 Bowdoin St., said it improved its operations to offer a better value by expanding its selection, lowering prices, and offering free community events and health workshops.
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The directors linked a GoFundMe, started in 2021, in the letter for individuals to donate to.
“We’re committed to doing everything we can in the next few months,” the board of directors wrote.
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