KENNETT SQUARE, PA — Kennett Community Grocer will open Nov. 23 at 629 E. Cypress Street, bringing a community-owned grocery store featuring products from more than 125 local farmers, food producers and artisans to the former Minnie’s Bakery location after eight years of organizing, fundraising and membership development.
The opening establishes a new retail outlet for regional food producers while introducing a cooperative grocery model that aims to direct a larger share of consumer spending to local farms and businesses.
Operating under a farm-stop model, Kennett Community Grocer will allow participating producers to sell goods under their own brands, establish retail prices and receive 70% of each sale.
The arrangement differs from conventional grocery distribution, in which farmers and food producers typically receive a smaller portion of the final retail price.
For comparison, the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that farm establishments receive approximately 18.5 cents of every dollar Americans spend on food at home, based on 2024 data.
The cooperative’s model is intended to increase the portion of retail revenue retained by local producers while providing shoppers with access to food grown and manufactured in the region.
The store will carry seasonal produce, locally produced grocery staples, specialty foods and handmade gifts, including greeting cards and lotions.
Its Nov. 23 opening comes three days before Thanksgiving, positioning the business to serve customers shopping for holiday meals and gifts.
The location also marks a return to food retailing at a site with longstanding ties to Kennett Square’s commercial history.
Minnie and Nick Crognale opened Minnie’s Bakery at the property 52 years ago. The cooperative will occupy the former bakery space at Minnie’s Square.
Kennett Community Grocer’s opening follows eight years of work by community members to establish a locally owned grocery business.
Beyond retail sales, the cooperative plans to use the store as a gathering place for residents and customers.
With support from the Longwood Rotary Club, the facility includes a seating area where visitors can purchase locally roasted coffee and locally made pastries.
The cooperative is also planning a weeklong community celebration beginning Jan. 4, 2027, featuring visits from farmers, food producers and artisans whose products are sold at the store.
Participating producers will introduce their products and discuss their businesses with customers. The celebration will also include light refreshments and opportunities for community gatherings.
The opening expands retail opportunities for local food producers while providing Kennett Square residents with another grocery shopping option built around regional sourcing and cooperative ownership.
Kennett Community Grocer will open to the public Monday, Nov. 23, at 629 E. Cypress Street in Kennett Square.
Additional information is available at https://kennettcommunitygrocer.coop
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