New Southeast Raleigh Grocery Cooperative to Break Ground

A new member-owned grocery store is set to begin construction, offering fresh food options to the local community.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Organic Food

New Southeast Raleigh Grocery Cooperative to Break Ground

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Do you prefer supporting community-owned cooperatives over relying on large national retail chains in your area?

The Fertile Ground Food Cooperative is scheduled to hold a groundbreaking ceremony on October 24, 2026, for a new community grocery store in Southeast Raleigh. This project aims to improve local food access, a need highlighted by the fact that more than 145,000 Wake County residents currently face hunger.

Why it matters

The store addresses a significant gap in fresh food options following the closure of major grocers in the area in 2013. By operating as a member-owned cooperative, the project seeks to keep wealth within the community and build long-term economic resilience.

The cooperative has secured $5 million of an $11 million project goal, supported by a current base of 1,000 member-owners. While this funding demonstrates significant community backing, the total timeline for project completion remains under development.

The players

Fertile Ground Food Cooperative

A community-led organization working to establish a grocery store to address food access gaps in Southeast Raleigh.

Kroger

A national supermarket chain that operated in Southeast Raleigh until closing its remaining stores in the area in 2013.

The details

Members join the cooperative by purchasing ownership stakes, which grants them a vote on store decisions and operational strategies. The organization prioritizes minimizing debt to ensure long-term profitability and sustainable service. The new facility is designed to serve as both a source for groceries and a shared space for the community.

2012: The initiative begins as a cooperative cafe concept.
2013: Kroger closes all store locations in Southeast Raleigh.
October 24, 2026: Groundbreaking ceremony at the JD Lewis Multipurpose Center.

Health Landscape

The project follows the pattern of community-led food cooperatives aiming to fill gaps left by major retail closures. It represents a shift toward local economic models intended to address persistent regional food insecurity.

Residents in Southeast Raleigh may see improved access to fresh produce and nutritional staples as this project advances. Those interested in supporting the initiative or monitoring its progress can speak with a community representative about member-ownership options.

The takeaway

This cooperative model highlights the role of community ownership in addressing systemic food access issues in underserved areas. Residents can track progress on the project to determine if this new grocery option will serve their specific neighborhood needs.