We’re excited to announce the completion of a major milestone for our move to Mill Street, in responding to the needs of our community, and for making strides in our efforts to be more environmentally sustainable. Through generous support from the Healthy Food Finance Initiative and Efficiency Vermont, we’ve completed the installation of new equipment that expands our frozen and dairy display while significantly reducing our environmental impact.

These new systems are estimated to save 38,700 kWh of electricity annually. To put that into perspective, this is equivalent to the annual electricity use of 3.65 average American homes. Even better, this upgrade will cut our carbon emissions by a remarkable 60,300 pounds per year. Considering that a typical hardwood tree can absorb as much as 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, that’s like planting 1,256 new trees each year.

Beyond direct environmental benefits, we have also increased our flood resilience. Our old cooler and freezer had external refrigeration elements placed behind the building next to the river, making them vulnerable to flood damage. The new system integrates the refrigeration units directly on top of the coolers and freezers, safely inside the building. This design not only protects the equipment but also reduces noise—the old system could be heard across the river, while the new units run almost silently.

This project is also a response to the feedback you’ve shared with us. Many of you told us how much you value sustainability and your desire for a wider variety of local, organic, and plant-based options in our frozen and dairy sections. With the improved storage capacity and energy efficiency of our new system, we’re better positioned to expand our offerings and bring in the items you’ve been asking for.

Not only do these upgrades allow us to stock more, but they also ensure products stay fresher for longer, minimizing waste and improving quality across the board. Whether it’s locally made dairy, new plant-based alternatives, or frozen meals to make life a little easier, the possibilities are expanding.

This investment isn’t just about refrigeration—it’s about becoming an increasingly more resilient and adaptable co-op for the future. By prioritizing environmental sustainability, listening to your feedback, and making this upgrades, we’re laying the foundation for continued growth and improvement.

Stop by the co-op to see the new system in action and explore the continuously improving selection in our dairy and frozen sections. Thank you for your support in making this project a reality—we couldn’t do it without you!