A New Chapter for Chicory Market
Making Local Farm Fare Accessible: Chicory Market’s Journey
In the quaint town of Oxford, a unique culinary tale has been brewing. Town residents Kate Bishop and her husband, John Martin have taken the mantle of propelling the local food movement forward. Their venture, Chicory Market, is a shout-out to the flourishing local food trends, the amalgamation of diverse communities, and an unwavering commitment to foster a way of life that promo-centric, locally sourced and environmentally friendly.
Inception and Growth of Chicory Market
As children of the soil, Kate and John found their way back home to Mississippi after years spent traversing various landscapes. Their experiences in the Delta – an area of paradoxical plenty offering a wealth of natural resources juxtaposed with a scarcity of accessible healthful food – prompted them to visualize Chicory Market.
The market was founded on the bedrock of the town’s rich history, initially a hotspot for local produce under the stewardship of Burlyn Hollowell and Liz Stagg. With backgrounds in education and the arts, Kate and John leveraged this foundational legacy to create not just another grocery store, but a community-centric hub that uses food as a catalyst to connect and foster relationships.
Engaging with Local Farmers and Vendors
“Working with more than 75 local farmers and vendors, we aim to grow the local food economy and make healthy, local food accessible to all income levels,” articulates John. Neighborhood connections and support for the local business web set Chicory Market apart from large chain grocers. The couple’s vision materialized as the market expanded into the old Sears building, providing an upgraded home for their business while bolstering other local companies such as Johnston Hill Creamery, Heartbreak Coffee, and Home Place Pastures.
The Chicory Experience and their Community-centric Mission
A trip to Chicory Market is far from the ordinary grocery run. It serves as a means to sample Mississippi-grown produce and taste dishes like grilled achiote chicken and brassica salad from Dr. Jack’s. In a nod to engaging customer experiences, the market also hosts pop-ups and direct deliveries from local farmers.
Chicory Market’s expansion reflects Oxford’s growth and ensuing demand. Transforming from a small enterprise to a staff of 50, the market has turned into a pivotal hub within the community. A part of the Independent Natural Foods Retailers Association (INFRA), its mission to make healthy and local food accessible is shared with the association, leveraging price points so that customers gain from savings.
Future Projections: From Atrium Additions to Addressing Food Insecurity
Future plans foresee the addition of the Atrium, envisaged as a space for local community meetings, cheese plates, and even a brown bag license for onsite beer consumption. They also anticipate collaborations with other local markets and groups to help build the local food economy and alleviate food insecurity in Lafayette County.
Chicory Market, bred out of a passion for community, local food, and shared experiences stands as a testament to the transformative power of a small-town grocery store. As this market continues to serve and grow within its community, it persistently weaves itself deeper into the fabric of Oxford, fostering healthier, more vibrant futures with each interaction and shared meal.
