A food cooperative is born
In the past, buyers clubs and even another single-room food co-op have come and gone in central Montana. Until now, food cooperatives haven't been able to compete with the larger and national-scale commercial grocery stores that keep a veil between the consumer and producer, while taking the rural-town dollars away from the community, and putting them in the pockets of larger corporations.
But that's over now! Rising fuel costs and general consumer/producer awareness has reinstated a good & solid 'support local' attitude. This a choice we can now make- spending money on all local businesses helps out the greater community. Shopping at the Big Spring Market allows you to reconnect with your producers, and eat healthy and sustainable foods. When you shop at the co-op, your dollars go to your neighbors, friends, into your store, and will bring down prices. A positive feedback.
It started as a group of few in January, 2008. After the remodelling and construction, and installation of the equipment purchased through the financial help of the Snowy Mountain Development Center, the doors were opened in May 2009. We are now a working member core of over 40 people, with over 400 memberships and an even larger customer base. Currently, the Big Spring Bakery operates out of our commercial kitchen!
Future plans are to create a grab-n-go deli complete with fresh-sliced meats and cheeses. We're working on our beer and wine selections, and a dining area for the warmer weather on our outside patio which faces the Lewistown walking trail. Our kitchen will be also made available for cooking lasses and community food education... working together for a better and healthier community!
