New grocery store opening soon downtown

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A new full-service grocery store will be opening soon in Downtown Wilmington.

Better Basket, located on 143 Front Street where Farmin’ on Front previously was, promises to bring a “local food utopia” to the downtown area, aiming to connect residents with local, farm-fresh food while focusing on reducing waste.

Co-owner Joseph Allen says they are trying to fill a need in the downtown area, providing readily accessible healthy, and sustainable options. He says they will be price conscience, paying local farmers fairly for their goods while also aiming to have something for everyone in the store.

Customers will be able to customize their experience at the store, using dispensers to choose how much of an item they need. For example, only purchasing a cup of milk compared to a gallon or a bowl of cereal instead of an entire box.

There will be a three-day cycle on products. On day one, the grocery store will sell raw products from local farmers. If the products don’t sell, they will be converted to shelf-stable products like banana bread or jams. If the products are still on the shelves on the third day, the store will donate them to a local food shelter. Allen says this is an effort to not only provide fresh products but help the community as well.

Allen says they are aiming to have a soft opening on or around July 4 and a grand opening will be held sometime between July and August.

For updates and more information, Allen says to follow their Facebook page.