Discover six locally owned alternatives to Trader Joe's

There is something really wrong with the idea of a national chain store opening being a sign of progress. Maybe we will really “hit it big” if a Cheesecake Factory opens downtown!) But that’s another story.

In the meantime, I would like to take this opportunity to point out that we already have many of the features of Trader Joe’s available right now, in some of our locally owned stores. According to Local First, when West Michigan consumers choose a locally owned business over a non-local alternative, 73% more money stays in the community.

If you're going to Trader Joe's for....

Organic and Specialty

• Nourish Organic Market: Everything in the store is organic, from grassfed beef to local cheese. Sources locally when possible and offers a CSA-type basket and has a bulk section.

• Harvest Health Foods: Lots of gluten free options, teas and herbs.

Cheap Wine

• G.B. Russo & Son: Celebrating their 110th anniversary this year, there are number of excellent wines for under $5. I think the least expensive I’ve found there was $3, and it was good indeed!

• Martha’s Vineyard: Another wine shop with a wide variety of prices, from affordable to decadent.

International

• Horrocks Market: Lots of fun finds here, including fresh produce, international items, and many unique regional if not local options. You can even have a beer while you shop.

• Mediterranean Island International Foods: No kitschy decor or Hawaiian shirts, just lots of grocery items you’d find shopping overseas.

Granted, there are a number of items that Trader Joe’s is famous for, like cookie butter and really cheap chocolate truffles, that you either can’t find at a locally owned store or that will cost a lot more. I’ll give you that point. But I would encourage you to visit some of the aforementioned locally owned grocery stores while you are waiting over the next several months for your TJ fix.