A new type of co-op store has opened in Alberta.
While this co-operative still promotes rural agriculture, you won’t find it on the main streets of small towns.
The Round River General Store is open for business only on the internet.
The new Alberta-based website markets small scale, niche-market products that are made in the province using environmentally sustainable resource practices.
“There was nothing in place for environmentally conscious consumers to find out where to get stuff and, on the other side, rural producers can’t afford the publicity to get their names out there,” said Kerry Grisley, co-ordinator of the Round River General Store.
Read Also
Canadian Food Inspection Agency extends chronic wasting disease control program consultation deadline
Date extended for consultation period of changes to CWD program
So far there are only about 30 products for sale.
Grisley said it’s been a struggle to find small producers who would be interested in selling and advertising their products through the store.
“It makes you appreciate how much this is needed,” said Grisley, who works for the Land Stewardship Centre of Canada, which developed the store through an Agriculture Canada grant.
The store sells everything from wool quilts to beeswax candles to flaxseed soap to buffalo-hide gloves. Departments within the store include household items, clothing, community-shared agriculture, bookshelf, kitchen pantry, supplies and gear, and personal care.
Grisley said the general store is a way for the Land Stewardship Centre to promote sustainable agriculture.
To find it, visit www.LandStewardship.org.
