Most groceries are owned by investors. SPRoUT is being built the other way around.
Three commitments we won't compromise on.
Worker-owned. One member, one vote.
Any surplus goes back into wages, into keeping everyday ingredients affordable, and into the long-term health of the business. When we can, some of it will go to community causes we believe in. None of it goes to outside shareholders.
Everyday ingredients first. Loose where we can.
Rice, pasta, oats, pulses, potatoes, fresh fruit and veg, core herbs and spices. Much of the range will be loose: weighed out, less packaging, and often cheaper for it. Seasonal produce from growers nearby, paid a fair price.
Funded by people we know and trust.
Opening the shop will require raising capital. While the planning phase is self-funded by the founders, we are looking for values-aligned donations, loans, and investments from individuals and organisations who share our vision, with no strings on how the shop is run.
SPRoUT exists to make everyday food less stressful.
The charter sets out what we're committing to in the development phase. It will be reviewed and ratified by the founding worker-members once the co-operative is formally established. Read the charter (PDF) →
Who's behind SPRoUT.
Photo · Rajiv and MollyRajiv Shah
"A shop that makes wholefood and low-waste eating straightforward, not aspirational."
Grew up in Kenya and Uganda. Has worked in wholefood retail for years. Focused on low-waste, wholefood living, and wants a shop that makes that straightforward for more people.
ku.oc.yrecorg-tuorps@vijar
Photo · Tamsin and BellaTamsin Robinson
"A place to buy quality food from people who know what they're selling."
Ran a café serving fair trade coffee and organic veggie burgers long before they were mainstream menu items. Twenty years later she has a better work/life balance but still wants the same thing - somewhere to buy good quality food, service with a smile from a committed team, and a sense of community and connection.
ku.oc.yrecorg-tuorps@nismatStay in touch
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