Last September, a 16 ft mobile bodega drew attention when it began parking at high-traffic locations in Hudson. Selling fresh produce, dairy, bread, grains, meat, seafood, non-perishables, toiletries, and other necessities through a fair pricing system, Rolling Grocer19 (RG19) was a welcome addition to the community.
Now, thanks to their recently opened brick-and-mortar store in Hudson, the operation has planted roots, offering extended hours and more inventory.
“We chose Hudson because everyone in the county has to go there,” says Retail Manager CeCe Graham. “Whether it’s the DMV, or other public services, all of the 19 townships have a connection to the town.”
The fair pricing system, set up through a free membership, is based on a few factors: number of people in the household, combined household income, and — believe it or not — the honor system.
Their produce, sourced from local farmers and producers, is bought in bulk and in streamlined selection. Purchasing directly from local farmers and producers allows them to offer fresh products at an affordable price.
Graham’s crew started out in 2017, selling fresh seafood in Hudson twice per month. “That lasted for about 10 months and was our first step in bringing people together with a common theme: food,” she says. “Our second step was the trailer, and now, the store.”
For now, the mobile market is currently offline while the RG19 team determines their new direction. Graham explains that by opening up a permanent storefront, the trailer can now travel to farther destinations.
“By being mobile, we can give people what the failing retailers cannot,” she says, “and we do it by uniting the community.”
