Over the last 4 years, Quad Communities Development Corporation (QCDC), a local non-profit organization that oversees neighborhood planning and development, has actively worked with the City of Chicago, 4th Ward Alderman, and local developers to improve the quality of life in the Quad Communities of North Kenwood, Oakland, Douglas and Grand Boulevard. The development of a market in Bronzeville is part of a broader effort that QCDC has been leading to expand retail and entertainment options in the community.
Currently, the vast majority of food related businesses within the Quad Communities are limited service and low-end grocers and fast food restaurants. While the supply of quality food is low, the demand is high. In 2004, according to a study completed by LISC/MetroEdge, an urban market research firm, $26.8 million in food related spending by local residents was done outside of the Quad Communities of North Kenwood, Oakland, Douglas and Grand Boulevard. Also, two of the four neighborhoods within the Quad Communities, as well as four adjacent communities, have been identified as food deserts - having little or no access to grocery stores - in researcher Mari Gallagher’s report, “Examining the Impact of Food Deserts on Public Health in Chicago.”
After years of aggressive, unsuccessful marketing and outreach to high-quality regional grocers, QCDC decided to lead the creation of a local market where residents and visitors can purchase healthy fresh and prepared foods. QCDC began the market planning and development process in August of 2007 by partnering with Sustain, an organization that works to connect local farmers and consumers, and O-H Community Partners, an economic development consulting firm. Together they conducted two focus groups and administered nearly 200 surveys to local residents and daytime workers. The results of this survey are presented here.
Key Community Survey Findings:
There is a tremendous unmet need for fresh, quality food in Bronzeville
Approximately 200 respondents were surveyed and at least 400 persons potentially impacted
The vast majority of respondents are African American women that reside in Bronzeville
Only 6% of respondents selected community area stores as their top produce provider
Most respondents regularly purchase poultry, dairy and eggs, fish/seafood, and beef
84% of respondents drive to their shopping destinations
73% of respondents have shopped at a farmers’ market; however , 27% of respondents have not largely due to inconvenient locations and lack of awareness. 36% of foods purchased from farmers’ markets are organic.
Respondents across all income segments reported that they would shop at a farmers’ market in Bronzeville. Only 2% of respondents reported that they would not shop at a farmers’ market in Bronzeville
The local customer base is economically diverse and spends frequently and handsomely on groceries
Nearly 50% of respondents report HH incomes of $50,000 or above, of which nearly half report incomes of $100,000+
African Americans are well represented across all income segments
53% of respondents shop on weekends and 68% shop at least once a week
Approximately 47% of respondents spend $31 or more per week on produce
The majority of respondents prefer the cash payment option; however, 50% of respondents would like the option of paying with credit
Customers overwhelming prefer fresh foods; however they also require a mix of locally and non-locally grown produce
93% of respondents prefer fresh produce
The top 10 regularly purchased vegetables are locally grown; however, 3 of the top 5 regularly purchased fruits are not locally grown
Customers will shop at a farmers market located in the community that operates on Sunday with a diverse array of educational and entertainment activities and events
Respondents prefer 35th and King Drive and Cottage Grove Avenue locations for a farmers’ market
Only12% of respondents reported that they will not shop on Sundays
20% to 40% of respondents would like to see kids activities, an antique market, music, and cooking demonstrations