The tiny shipping container sized neighborhood grocery store called Stockbox that launched a prototype in the Delridge "food desert" last year is back for round two but this time is meant to be more permanent. Located in the business district in the South Park neighborhood Stockbox is the product of Seattle-based entrepreneurs, Carrie Ferrence and Jacqueline Gjurgevich, The store will open on Aug, 15 with a grand opening set for ten days later Aug. 25.

Stockbox is a business-based solution created to increase access to fresh, affordable and good food choices within urban communities. The store is located at 8520 14th Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98108.

"If you have to take a long bus ride or hope in your car to get to the nearest grocery store, when there are a handful of fast food or convenience stores within walking distance, it makes it extremely difficult to access good food. Our pilot program last fall showed us that there was an overwhelming amount of interest and support from neighbors to bring good food back into the community" said Ferrence.

What the fledgling company attempted and their efforts to launch a 'good food revolution,' gained national and international attention, including coverage in the New York Times and Fast Company. Stockbox was also recognized by The White House and recently spoke in San Francisco at the Slow Money National Gathering and in Seattle at the Federal Reserve annual conference.

"Most families buy the same five to ten items each week, so they only need to go to a big grocery store once or twice a month," said Gjurgevich. "Stockbox provides a range of fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and dairy, and grocery staples, from local and organic farmers whenever possible, and will make it easy for people to get essential staples each day, including grab-and-go meals and snacks, with a variety of fresh foods to try."

The company says its mission is to "bring good food options back into communities - like an old-fashioned corner store, but with a modern, healthy twist."

They have plans to eventually open multiple locations in other communities and they are sticking to their model of operating the stores inside reclaimed shipping containers or retrofitted storefronts throughout urban areas. Stockbox is also partnering with non-profits, such as The Hope Heart Institute and Seamar, to provide educational materials and activities in stores and in the community to further support good food education.

The store hours will be 8:00 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The Grand Opening Celebration is Saturday, August 25th from Noon to 4:00 p.m.