Main Market opens in downtown area

Main Market opens in downtown area


Al Stover / Reporting
Nicole Denman / Images

The Main Market celebrated its grand-opening last week with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Located at 44 W. Main Ave., Main Market is a food-cooperative grocery store that is owned by the members who are also customers of the store.

According to Jennifer Hall, Main Market's General manager, Main Market first opened its doors to the public Jan. 21. Hall said the reasons for opening the market the motivation of the cooperative's members, and the lack of a grocery store in the downtown area.

"A grocery store was a missing element for Downtown and a complaint from many people," Hall said. "Main Market brings a diverse group of people who care about their food."

Although, Main Market is owned by its members, anyone can apply for membership by filling out a form online or going to the store, according to Hall.

"Members contribute and they can participate in board of directors elections," Hall said. " They also have discounts and benefits such as attending members only events. If there is a fee, they get a discount."

According to Hall, the cost of a general membership is a one-time payment of $180. The price of a membership for low income families, and producers is reduced to $75. Members can spread their payment in a three-year plan with an additional $15 administrative fee. There is also a student membership, for an annual fee of $30 that includes many of the normal member benefits.

Although members do get different benefits, Hall said that customers do not have to be members to shop at Main Market.
"We're doing our best to reach the full community," Hall said.

According to Hall, many of the products on Main Market's shelves come from hundreds of producers and growers from different parts of the U.S. She said Main Market plans to increase their commitment to local producers.

Hall said that Main Market has 20 to 25 part-time and full-time employees on their staff. Brett Schmahl, one of Main Market's employees, said he enjoys the store’s commitment to the community.

"Everyone knows they are a part of something bigger," Schmahl said.

Main Street also hosts several events and programs to help educate customers about their food, and how the market works.

"We have authors coming to teach about education and food, and moves brought to the Magic Lantern," Hall said. "Some months we will have heightened activity."

In addition to the retail they sell, Hall said Main Market gives customers a chance to help some of the producers and growers.

She adds that customers can also volunteer at the store any day of the week, where training is provided.

"The training gives them more confidence, but it's not required," Hall said. "Some people sign up for a two-hour slot every week."

Spokane mayor Mary Verner, who attended the ribbon cutting ceremony said she was excited for the fresh food and alternatives Main Market will provide to the community.

"It will also be a gathering place," Verner said.

Olivia Haberkorn, a shopper said she likes the store's variety of huckleberries.

"It's also closer for me," Haberkorn said. "I'm not a member yet, but I am considering it."






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