The co-operative, called SCOOP, launched last year with over 200 members but lost its premises in March and had struggled to find a new home.
But now SCOOP will be reopening in St Lawrence at La Bienvenue Farm.
Co-founder Kaspar Wimberley said volunteers had been busy getting the shop ready during the month that the co-operative was closed, although they did have fresh products on offer during the Simply Spring pop-up event last week in the Royal Square.
‘We hope that they will recognise the same range of products, warm welcome and lovely local veg,’ Mr Wimberley said. ‘We’ve made a few improvements, such as installing pumps for the refill detergents, while a few other things are planned for the near future, including some new products, online click-and-collect ordering, a sterilisation and cleaning facility, outdoor events and collaborations with local charities.’
India Hamilton, who co-founded the co-operative with Mr Wimberley, was busy working at the site yesterday to prepare for opening day.
She said that the new premises were a little smaller than those at the St Brelade location but they had invested in a new fridge to keep the produce as fresh as possible.
During the time that the shop was closed Miss Hamilton took the opportunity to review the products SCOOP sold – which include cleaning products and cosmetics, as well as foodstuffs.
Now, as they make their final preparations for reopening, Miss Hamilton said she was really looking forward to seeing everyone. SCOOP will have live musicians playing on Saturday and food samples available.
‘We have organic, early Royals from three different farms, which is exciting,’ she said.
The shop is also hosting a Rewilding Your Plate exhibition and there will be the opportunity to swap recipes.
SCOOP organisers are now hoping to build on their early success and Mr Wimberley said in their previous six months of operation they had demonstrated that it is a viable business, which could work financially and grow.
‘There will still be work to do when we open, but we’ll keep striving to meet the needs of our community and environment,’ he said.
‘We hope [the new location] will allow us to regain some momentum and enjoy a degree of stability. Its central location in the Island and the improved facilities for storing fresh produce will provide an opportunity to reach a wider audience, so we’re looking forward to the months ahead.’
The new shop is located at La Bienvenue Farm on Grande Route de St Laurent and will be open on Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm. From next week SCOOP will resume their normal Tuesday to Saturday operating hours.
