Detroit People’s Food Co-Op to Open Black-Led Grocery Store

They hope to help solve food insecurity.

A Black-led grocery store, the Detroit People’s Food Co-Op (DPFC), is slated to open its doors in early 2024, Outlier Media reports. The 31,000-square-foot, two-story building, located in the historic North End at 8324 Woodward Avenue, is a component of the Detroit Food Commons (DFC) project. The DFC project, a collaboration between two nonprofits—Detroit Black Community Food Sovereignty Network (DBCFSN) and Develop Detroit—aims to not only provide a grocery store but also foster community engagement through a dedicated space and support for local food entrepreneurs.

One unique aspect of the DPFC is that it will be the only Black-led, community-owned grocery store in the Midwest, challenging industry practices and creating economic opportunities for local growers and farmers in the supply chain. Malik Yakini, DBCFSN co-founder and executive director, told Outlier Media. “DPFC will be the only Black-led, community-owned grocery store in the Midwest, confronting extractive practices of the industry while connecting economic opportunities to local growers and farmers in the supply chain.”

Given that 69% of Detroit households are currently food insecure, as per the Detroit Food Policy Council’s 2021 Food Metrics Report, the DPFC’s arrival is seen as a crucial step toward improving food insecurity and associated health conditions. Yakini explained, “DFC will bring much-needed access to fresh and nutrient-rich foods to help counter the negative effects of food insecurity, including obesity, high blood pressure, and a host of other health challenges that are negatively impacting Detroiters.”

The store will offer a diverse range of items, including frozen foods, meats, baked goods, dairy products, health and wellness items, and a deli. Additionally, the co-op intends to contribute to local economic development by creating job opportunities. Chris Dilley, interim general manager of DPFC, anticipates the creation of 40 positions within the first three years of operation, emphasizing, “Our goal is not only to provide affordable food but also to contribute to the economic vitality of our community.”

Cover Photo: DPFC will be located in the historic North End at 8324 Woodward Avenue / DPFC