Our Co-op recently purchased a Food Production Facility across our parking lot. It is the property with the brown metal sides, located at 56 Dunbar Street. When we learned that the current owner wished to sell it, our Co-op became interested in purchasing it based on its past and present use.

The facility used to operate as a shared-use food production space to support local producers (Saxy Chef started here). Currently, MamaSezz, a plant-based meal producer, utilizes the space. MammaSezz produces and ships high-quality plant-based meals across the country. We spent the last few months evaluating, researching, financially modeling, and inspecting the facility.

After completing our due diligence, we recognized that we were getting a great value based on the purchase price. The board unanimously–and enthusiastically–approved this purchase at its October meeting. With the board’s approval and the property’s potential to support local food production, we decided to move ahead and buy this property.

As the new owner of the building, we are excited that MamaSezz will continue to utilize the facility, producing healthy meals right here in Keene. MamaSezz plans to outgrow the space eventually. Therefore, we plan to use the space to support our Co-op’s growth and local food producers in the future. We hope to improve access to food production space, a common barrier to small-scale producers.

The space includes food production equipment, including walk-in coolers, freezers, warehouse space, and office areas. We are excited about how this facility will help support local food production in our community now and in the future! Have questions? Please contact General Manager Michael Faber at [email protected].