"Local Food" Store to Open in Owen Sound

Anne Finlay-Stewart is currently in the process of opening a local food market in downtown Owen Sound (with free parking!)

Anne is a regular blogger here on the Grey-Bruce views page, as well as my former campaign manager, and a regular member of the "get 'er done" set in Owen Sound.

The new store will offer year-round access to the best food the region has to offer.

The Grey Local of the National Farmers Union has given the plan amazing support with money, experienced advice, committed suppliers and hands-on help.

So far Anne has committed local producers of beef, lamb, chicken, eggs, pheasant, garlic, shallots, squash, pumpkins, yogurt, cereals, flours, fish, honey, maple syrup, apple products, coffee and pasta, and promises of some of your favourites like Tom Pink's chocolate cream horns and Curry in a Hurry's prepared dishes. And she's barely begun to ask.

The model is the 100 Mile Market in Meaford, and owners Barb and Dave could not be any more supportive and helpful. They see this kind of cooperation among producers, retailers and customers as the key to sustainable communities with a secure, healthy food supply.

If you're interested in supporting this venture, here's the pitch. Anne is looking for people who will invest $1000, for 5% per annum, paid semi-annually in store credits. The term is 5 years, with no penalty for early pay-out. Some people are going to put up their $1000 in "sweat equity" instead, on the same terms (except I'll repay in cash, not sweat!)

If this sounds like your kind of venture, or if you want to ask questions, share ideas, give advice or tell Anne what you'd like to see in a local food market, please email her at annekfs@gmail.com or call her at 519-371-3933.

The likely location of the store will be 1st Ave. W. on the riverfront.