Community Shops: Case Study

Helen MeliaFounder member, Strood Green Shop Association

Brief history

• Deteriorating privately owned village shop• Village offers to buy in 2005. Declined, shop CLOSED• In 2008, new owners offered a peppercorn lease to

the community• £80,000 needed for complete refurb, fittings and new stock

Fundraising begins

And continues....

Collating 1500 share packs

Community engagement

• Formed an Industrial & Provident Society• Sold £10 shares (over 400 shareholders)• Fundraising events• Applied for grants• Took out a loan • Opened as a community-run shop in March 2009

Transformed....

From open days.... To Opening Day!

A shop to be proud of

Our first Christmas

What it offers the community• Employs local people• Employs & trains teenagers • Rota of volunteers• Offers postal services• Sells local produce• Internet cafe• Free wi-fi• Free library• Social hub

The need for the shop

• A lifeline in bad weather• Meeting place & rallying point• Reduction in food miles• Reduction of car journeys• Supports the local economy• Community spirit

What does it stock?

• Everything! • Local produce• Groceries• Sweeties• Alcohol• Fresh veg• Bakery

How does it work?

• Society is run by Management Committee (all volunteers) elected by Members• Paid staff report to Committee• Volunteers support staff

Support from outside

• County councillor very supportive – helped obtain grants

• Parish council also supportive regular funding• Rural community council facilitated a grant• The Plunkett Foundation for finance, advice & training