Delivery partners are being sought to create two new community supermarkets in Greenstead, Colchester, and Canvey Island.
Community supermarkets are non-profit and follow a model designed by Feeding Britain. Unlike food banks, customers are able to shop freely and choose what they spend their money on, receiving a discount on their purchases. Stores provide all basic cupboard essentials, as well as some fresh produce and household items.
The Colchester and Canvey Island shops are set to open later this summer. They will provide local residents with the chance to buy food and household essentials at very low prices.
Cllr Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Community, Partnerships and Performance said: “Following on from the success of our first two stores in Basildon and Jaywick, I am delighted that we are now in a position to establish two further community supermarkets in Colchester and Canvey Island. These new shops will be designed and located directly with the needs of their local communities in mind.
“Our existing two stores are continuing to see their customer numbers grow, currently supporting around 620 adults and 340 children, and I have heard first-hand from the customers how invaluable their weekly visits to the shop are.
“They have fast become a vital community hub, not only allowing residents to carry out their weekly shop in an affordable way, but also by bringing communities and neighbours together, with staff offering a warm welcome, a friendly face and the chance to have a hot drink and a chat.
“The delivery of this programme across the County plays a vital role in our work to level up Essex and I am very much looking forward to seeing these two new stores up and running later in the summer.”
Applicants should have a good knowledge and experience of their local area, as well as an understanding of the needs of their local community.
This opportunity is part of our commitment to bring community supermarkets to every district in Essex. Two shops are already up and running in Laindon and Jaywick Sands collectively serving over 375 members weekly.
Find out more or submit a bid to create one of the community supermarkets by accessing ITT CO0354 - Bringing Community Supermarkets to Essex Phase 2. The project reference is DN669368.
You will need to register as a supplier before applying.