December 2024 Updates

As 2024 comes to an end, we reflect on an incredible year for SunCoast Market Co-op.

This success is thanks to our board, owners, and volunteers. Without your support, we would not be able to open next year.

In 2024, we finalized our store design and layout, hired a general contractor, and prepared our site for the store buildout beginning in the new year. We also continued to be part of numerous community events, present a series of bilingual cooking classes, and oversee the monthly farmers’ market.

We have held several fundraising events, meet and greets, and presented our vision to numerous community groups. See below for major milestones!

In 2024 we also increased our ownership to 1,211 owners (households and businesses). If you are already an owner, thank you. If you are not yet an owner, we encourage you to become one during this exciting stage. Your ownership not only provides important financial support but it also allows you to have a voice in the type of store we are building.

If you have friends or neighbors who aren’t owners yet, please encourage them to join as well. This is a chance to be an owner in a local business along with your neighbors and friends that exists to serve the community and support other local businesses. Our goal is to have 1,500 members when we open our doors. Anyone can sign up on our website: Owner Application.

In 2024, SunCoast secured 80% of funds needed to open. However, we still have more to raise! While we have purchased the majority of our equipment, we will need funds for items such as store inventory, staffing as we get closer to opening date, office equipment, and working capital. No matter the size, any donation is greatly appreciated: Donate Today.

As we reflect and celebrate new beginnings, we look forward to working with all of you to create South Country’s first food cooperative!

In cooperation,
Doug Zilm, General Manager
Kim Rivero Frink, Board President