The Tops on Estis' agenda: Get back to basics. "We're bringing in more conventional products, more frozen foods. We're working with different distributors. But mainly, I'm working to get better pricing on a expanded selection of conventional products." She's also making the store easier to understand, with more "obvious" and more accessible product arrangement in the store's 5,000 square-foot space on Stoughton's main street. The store previously ran aground, says Estis, by trying to do too much all at once. "I think they tried to do everything, to be all things to all people and didn't have a clear strategy. So they were inconsistent." That was coupled with the fact that they "weren't getting good pricing from their suppliers." They bought some bad products, Estis says -- for instance, she found a laundry detergent that cost $20 sitting on the shelf. "Certainly some products are worth $20," says Estis. But for the time being, the reorganized store will be aiming at a middle road. YRGC is keeping some products like the widely-requested gluten free line. YRGC also stocks locally produced foods, like
The store has also raised funds by sponsoring a community chili cookoff for two years. But currently the focus is on getting more shoppers into the store and liking what they see inside.
Yahara River Grocery Cooperative
229 East Main St.
Stoughton, WI 53589
608-877-0947
