Co-op buys former Keller’s IGA

They have the building, now the real work begins.

A group working to open a Clifton co-op grocery store said Friday that it has bought the former Keller’s IGA at 319 Ludlow Ave. The milestone is important for the Clifton Market because it has raised nearly $1 million to cover the property’s purchase price and now can attempt to raise more money to redevelop the store.

The group bought the store from Steve Goessling, who operated several Greater Cincinnati IGA grocery stores, who unsuccessfully attempted to renovate and reopen the store after it closed in 2011.

Co-op organizers began fundraising in March 2014. Clifton Market organizers have worked with people in grocery operations, banking, law and marketing to help develop the business plan, budget and financial statements. They’ve determined an “uptrend” store would fulfill an unmet need in the neighborhood and support the Ludlow Avenue business district.

The co-op is expected sell organic and locally sourced produce, seafood, bakery items, beer and wine, health products, baby products and pet food. The store is also expected to have a butcher and operate a deli counter. The more than 22,000-square-foot store could bring 15,000 people each week to Ludlow Avenue, according to the group’s market study.

“We are working with the National Coop Bank and other sources as well as kicking into our next round of selling owner shares and accepting owner loans,” said Marilyn Hyland, a Clifton Market board member. “We are happy to announce a $100,000 owner loan match, so that we can double the money to $200,000 by May 15.”

Hyland said there are more than 960 share owners and more than 1,000 shares in the market have been sold. Share owners can make loans to build owner equity. Owners in the store also entitled to special programs and discounts.

More information about the group can be found online at cliftonmarket.com.