Noank store reborn

2011 was a rough year for local businesses. In Mystic, construction on Streetscape projects kept customers away and decreased sales. Power outages from Tropical Storm Irene closed one local business down for good. Universal Food Store in Noank ended an era that began when the Quaratella family purchased the store in 1947. Another economic victim was Puritan & Genesta natural foods, doing business for 35 years in Mystic.
A new group of volunteers is helping to make 2012 a positive year for the local economy.This group is the board of directors and staff of the Noank Community Market, owned and managed cooperatively, opening May 5th in the former Universal Food Store on Pearl Street in Noank.The new market will address three areas of service, acting as a general food store, a bakery and offering natural foods and supplements. The market will also provide meats, pizza, prepared foods and catering, with an experienced professional staff led by C.J. Lewis, formerly of Puritan and Genesta.

Before opening, the market has raised $250,000 in loans from its membership to cover costs of purchasing inventory and equipment and hiring professional staff. Only members were allowed offer the loans. A family membership costs a one-time fee of $175, and members receive discounts on every purchase. Currently, over 400 family memberships have been signed up. The Market will also serve retail and visiting customers and includes a sitting area with Wi-fi service where people can gather and socialize.

Following the Grand Opening Ceremony with Ribbon Cutting on Saturday, May 5th at 10:30 AM, normal business hours are presently scheduled to be 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, 7 days per week. Family Household Memberships are still available.