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Suncoast Market co-op readies grand opening in Imperial Beach after decade-long volunteer effort
Summary
Organizers of the Suncoast Market co-op told the council they will hold a Jan. 31 grand opening for the volunteer-built grocery cooperative, which received city and grant support and will open as a hybrid store offering local, organic and value items.
Suncoast Market Co‑op board member Kim Frank told the Imperial Beach City Council on Wednesday that the cooperative will hold a grand opening at 9 a.m. on Jan. 31 and that the store will operate as a hybrid cooperative combining local and organic offerings with mainstream value staples.
"We're going to have our main program from 9 to 9:30 with the ribbon cutting," Frank said, inviting the public. She described a product mix that aims to reflect Imperial Beach shoppers and said the store will open with about 25 staff members, many of whom live locally. Frank thanked the City of Imperial Beach, county grant programs, USDA funding, San Diego Community Power (which funded an all‑electric kitchen), and Neighborhood National Bank for support and noted volunteers drove the project for years.
Council members praised the co‑op’s volunteers and fundraising. Several asked about solar power; Frank said they currently do not have rooftop solar but hope to add it if the landlord approves. Councilmember Seabury asked whether the co‑op is on community power; Frank confirmed it is enrolled with San Diego Community Power.
Council congratulated the organizers and offered help publicizing the opening and cooking‑class partnerships. The council did not take any formal action; the presentation was informational and the co‑op asked the community to attend the grand opening.
