Coming Soon: Expanded Keweenaw Co-op in Hancock
Despite delays, the wait is nearly over for the Keweenaw Co-op's much-anticipated move to downtown Hancock. The new location, slated to open later this year, will offer customers a significantly enhanced shopping experience with nearly double the retail space and a wider selection at the deli.
Curt Webb, Keweenaw Co-op’s General Manager, checks the status of the Co-op build on May 18. Photo by Denise Hansen.
The Co-op has received overwhelming community support, with more than $1 million raised, but that hasn’t stopped the project from facing significant delays. The construction has faced challenges due to unforeseen circumstances, including supply shortages in the wake of the pandemic and changes in state elevator regulations. Those regulation changes required a mid-project reconfiguration of the elevator design that set the project back months. Now, the problems have been ironed out, and the construction is back on track.
HVAC work is underway in the Co-op’s new retail space. Photo by Denise Hansen.
“We understand the responsibility ahead of us to make sure it works to provide food access to everyone in the Keweenaw,” said Denise Hansen, sales and operations manager at the Co-op. “That’s what we do.”
Produce enthusiasts will be greeted by a prominent section showcasing fresh fruits, vegetables, and even flowers as soon as they enter the store.
“We’re doing what we do best, and we’re doing more of it,” Hansen said
An open kitchen will allow customers to witness the preparation of pizzas, sandwiches and more firsthand, emphasizing the focus on fresh and healthy offerings. The expanded deli section caters to those seeking quick and convenient meal options.
“We are the place people come for sandwiches,” Hansen said.
The deli will feature a wider selection, including custom orders, hot and cold pizza, pre-made salads, and bowls. Kombucha will be on tap alongside coffee and cold beverages.
Seating will also be significantly increased, with 30 seats inside at tables and window counter stools. During warmer months, additional outdoor seating will be available. Parking will improve as well, with the new location offering 50 dedicated spots, including three handicapped spaces, compared to the current store's roughly eight off-street parking spaces.
The new facility will also significantly improve working conditions for employees. A dedicated loading dock for receiving shipments is one thing the co-op has never had before.
Other improvements include a more efficient, unified kitchen location, walk-in sales coolers and a more private break space. The new coolers for drinks, dairy, and other products allow employees to stock from the rear rather than being in the aisle. Not having the store spread across three floors will also make a big difference for the workers, according to Hansen.
The Co-op's move downtown signifies a major step, not only for the business itself but also for the surrounding area. Co-op officials believe the new location will be transformative.
“We are very fortunate to have found a location that works for the business as well as the community,” Hansen said, noting the proximity to businesses for walking lunches and the revitalization of a previously unused space.
The increased visibility from nearby highway traffic is expected to benefit the business, and the easy access and convenient location compared to the current store situated outside the city center are seen as advantages.
“We’ll be the first grocery store off the bridge,” Hansen pointed out.
The new store will be at 610 Quincy Street in Hancock.
Editor’s note: This article was modified after posting to include the Co-op’s new address.
