Southern Indiana Business Report
SHOALS – The Shoals community is taking action following the closure of its only grocery store by offering a pop-up market and launching a community survey to determine what the community wants and will support.
Todd Baker, owner of Bo-Mac’s in Shoals, announced on the Bo-Mac’s Facebook page Wednesday that the Shoals Grocery Grab will be offered once a week in the parking lot of Bo-Mac’s beginning Aug. 5 from 5 to 7 p.m.
In June, the community learned the JayC store was set to close in July, setting off a wave of sadness and concern throughout the community. The nearest grocery stores are located in Loogootee, about a 10-minute drive.
“With the recent closing of our beloved JayC store, many of us have been left wondering – what now? It’s not just the loss of a grocery store – it’s the loss of a familiar place, familiar faces, and a vital part of our community,” Baker wrote in a social media post. “We’ve felt the sadness, the concern, and the urgency – especially for those without transportation, those who prefer to shop local, and those who just want to see our small town continue to thrive.”
Baker and Jessica Potts, executive director of the Martin County Alliance, and others in the community met with IU Kelley School of Business Professor Keith Dayton, who the community had worked with on other initiatives, to explore solutions.
The Shoals Grocery Grab will be a three-month pilot program. It will feature local vendors and community organizations that will offer meat, dairy items, eggs, bread and other items.
“While we know we can’t fully replace JayC, we’re doing everything we can to help meet the needs of our town,” Baker wrote.
Getting feedback, community survey
Following the three-month pilot, Baker said the market will be assessed to make adjustments and plot its future. He said a “Recommendation Board” will let residents offer suggestions and share ideas.
Community input is an important part of planning next steps and residents are encouraged to complete the survey. Shoals community residents can take the survey here or via the Shoals Grocery Grab Facebook page.