A new community-led greengrocers is coming to Leyland this Christmas.
Leyland Community Greengrocers will launch with a festive pop-up stall at Leyland Market from 8.30am to 4.30pm on Saturday 20 December.
The stall, the first step toward a permanent commercial greengrocers run for community benefit, will bring fresh, affordable Lancashire produce directly to shoppers, supporting local farmers and strengthening the local food economy.
The project is being developed in partnership with a range of local organisations and businesses, including Cocker Bar Orchard, who have been growing apples in Lancashire for almost 300 years, and Perfect Recruitment, who are supporting the development of the new venture.
The pop-up stall will offer a selection of fresh fruit, vegetables and locally-produced items sourced directly from Lancashire growers. It gives residents the chance to stock up for the festive season while keeping money circulating in the local community.
Kay Johnson MBE, Director of The Larder and coordinator of the project, said: “Leyland Community Greengrocers is about reconnecting local people with local food. By sourcing directly from Lancashire farms, we can offer high-quality produce at fair prices while keeping more value within the community. This pop-up is an exciting first step, and we’re delighted to be working with local partners who share our vision.”
The Leyland Community Greengrocers team is seeking volunteers to help run the pop-up stall and contribute to the ongoing development of the venture and community co-op network.
Read more: Chew’s Yard in Preston hosting packed programme this festive season
Alongside the commercial greengrocers, The Larder is working with Progress Housing Group to pilot community food co-ops in Progress community centres across South Ribble.
These co-ops will offer residents on low incomes access to affordable fresh produce, opportunities to volunteer, and a supportive community environment.
While the community co-ops are a separate initiative, the long-term ambition is that Leyland Community Greengrocers will eventually supply and support them, creating a joined-up, self-sustaining local food system.
“The commercial greengrocers will prove the model and support local growers, while the community co-ops will make sure those on the lowest incomes also benefit from fresh, local food,” said Kay. “Both parts of the project will ultimately strengthen each other.”
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