BETHLEHEM, Pa. — After more than ten years in development, the Bethlehem Food Co-op has hired its first employee, General Manager, Eric Shamis. He spoke to WLVR’s Brad Klein about the latest work on the community-owned grocery.
- Construction at 250 E Broad Street in Bethlehem is ongoing as the Bethlehem Food Co-op progresses toward its opening
- The community-owned grocery store is now expected to open its doors for business in the first quarter of 2024
- The Co-op's upcoming social event will take place at Playa Bowl in South Bethlehem on July 19 from 6-8 p.m.
Construction continues at 250 E Broad Street in Bethlehem
- The community grocery is expected to open for business during the first quarter of 2024 after supply chain delays nixed a 2023 opening
- The Co-op’s next social event is at Playa Bowl in South Bethlehem on July 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. They are collecting unopened oral hygiene products for Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering.
The Co-op had previously indicated that the new location at 250 E Broad St in Bethlehem would open in 2023. But due to delays in construction and obtaining needed technology, Shamis says a first quarter 2024 opening is now in the cards.
“I can tell you, the ones that are really successful are the ones that feel like you could only place it there.”Bethlehem Food Co-op General Manager Eric Shamis
Shamis says they’re now working on the details of the interior’s design. “From visiting co-ops around the country,” he said, “I can tell you, the ones that are really successful are the ones that feel like you could only place it there.” Shamis says they are choosing artwork that reflects the unique Lehigh Valley location of the Co-op.
Unlike commercial grocery stores, the Co-op holds social events for its members and outreach events to attract more. On July 19, members will meet at Playa Bowl in South Bethlehem. The Co-op is collecting unopened oral hygiene products like toothbrushes to donate to those in need in the community.
