Imperial Beach, California, February 1, 2026
After years of planning and community effort, the SunCoast Market Co-op has opened in Imperial Beach, offering residents fresh, healthy food options. The co-op aims to meet local demand for grocery access in a region previously classified as a ‘food desert.’ The store features locally sourced produce, bulk foods, prepared meals, and more. Community members can also become co-op owners for a one-time fee, further enhancing local engagement and commitment to healthy living.
Imperial Beach Celebrates Grand Opening of SunCoast Market Co-op
Imperial Beach, California – After a decade of dedicated planning and community fundraising, the SunCoast Market Co-op has officially opened its doors, providing residents with a long-awaited, locally owned grocery store offering fresh, healthy food options.
Grand Opening Celebrations
The grand opening took place on January 31, 2026, at 600 Palm Avenue, Suite 107, Imperial Beach. The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, speeches from local officials, and community festivities, marking a significant milestone for the South Bay community.
Community-Driven Initiative
Established in 2016, SunCoast Market Co-op was born out of a grassroots effort to address the lack of healthy food options in Imperial Beach. Over the years, the community rallied together, raising over $4.1 million through member investments, donations, and grants to fund the project. This collective effort culminated in the opening of the 6,200-square-foot store, which aims to serve as a hub for fresh, locally sourced produce and goods.
Store Features and Offerings
SunCoast Market Co-op offers a diverse range of products, including:
- Fresh Produce: A variety of locally sourced fruits and vegetables, many supplied by Foodshed Cooperative and local farmers.
- Bulk Foods: Options such as grains, nuts, granolas, and beans, allowing customers to purchase in desired quantities.
- Prepared Foods: A deli featuring freshly baked bread, healthy wraps, soups, and a salad bar, catering to those seeking convenient meal options.
- Meats and Seafood: A selection of quality meats and seafood for home cooking.
- Health and Wellness Products: Items including vitamins, personal care products, and a refill station for bulk herbs and spices.
- International Foods: A curated selection of culturally diverse products to cater to the community’s varied tastes.
Membership and Community Engagement
Community members have the opportunity to become co-op owners by purchasing a one-time $200 share, which grants voting rights on store decisions and access to discounts and special promotions. As of January 16, 2026, the co-op boasts 1,494 owners, reflecting strong community support and engagement.
Addressing Community Needs
Imperial Beach has long been considered a “food desert,” with limited access to full-service grocery stores. A community survey revealed that 73% of residents were shopping outside the neighborhood for their groceries. The opening of SunCoast Market Co-op aims to address this gap by providing a convenient, local option for healthy food, thereby supporting the community’s well-being and local economy.
Looking Ahead
With its doors now open, SunCoast Market Co-op is poised to become a cornerstone of the Imperial Beach community, offering residents a sustainable and community-focused alternative to traditional grocery stores. The co-op’s success underscores the power of community collaboration and the importance of local initiatives in meeting the needs of residents.
Contact Information
For more information about SunCoast Market Co-op, including membership details and store hours, visit their official website or contact them directly at (619) 500-9001.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is SunCoast Market Co-op?
SunCoast Market Co-op is a community-owned grocery store located at 600 Palm Avenue, Suite 107, Imperial Beach, California. It offers a variety of fresh, healthy food options, including locally sourced produce, bulk foods, prepared meals, and health and wellness products.
How can I become a member-owner of the co-op?
Community members can become co-op owners by purchasing a one-time $200 share. This membership grants voting rights on store decisions and access to discounts and special promotions. As of January 16, 2026, the co-op has 1,494 owners.
What are the store’s operating hours?
SunCoast Market Co-op is open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Store hours may be evaluated and adjusted as needed.
What types of products does the store offer?
The store offers a range of products, including fresh produce, bulk foods, prepared foods, meats and seafood, health and wellness products, and international foods. Many of the products are sourced from local farmers and vendors.
How was the co-op funded?
The co-op was funded through a combination of member investments, donations, and grants, totaling over $4.1 million. This funding supported the store’s construction, stocking, and initial operations.
Why was the co-op established?
SunCoast Market Co-op was established to address the lack of healthy food options in Imperial Beach, a community previously considered a “food desert.” The co-op aims to provide residents with convenient access to fresh, healthy food and support the local economy.
Key Features of SunCoast Market Co-op
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 600 Palm Avenue, Suite 107, Imperial Beach, California |
| Store Size | 6,200 square feet |
| Operating Hours | Daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| Membership Fee | One-time $200 share |
| Number of Owners | 1,494 as of January 16, 2026 |
| Product Offerings | Fresh produce, bulk foods, prepared foods, meats and seafood, health and wellness products, international foods |
| Funding Sources | Member investments, donations, grants totaling over $4.1 million |
| Community Impact | Addressing the “food desert” issue in Imperial Beach by providing access to healthy food options and supporting the local economy |
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