What's happening? PRoduce, the company that since 2018 has facilitated the purchase of locally grown products through an online delivery model, officially opened its first physical store on June 4 at 722 Calle Hoare in Miramar, on the border between El Gandul and Tras Talleres. The opening represents an investment of nearly $850,000 and will create 12 direct jobs and 20 indirect ones.
"The physical store adds to the mission of presenting the market that Puerto Ricans deserve. It has been possible thanks to the energy, love and trust that the team, consumers and great partners have placed in it over these 8 years," said Crystal Díaz, a food affairs expert and co-founder of PRoduce, to Platea.
Why does it matter?
For consumers in Puerto Rico, this space offers physical access to fresh, locally sourced products. Those who were already buying through the digital platform will now have the option to visit the store, pick up their orders, or simply stop in for whatever is in season.
For farmers, the store represents an additional sales channel. PRoduce currently works with more than 300 farmers and producers, and with the opening of the physical location and the redesign of its digital platform, the company aims to triple that number in a short time.
For chefs and restaurants, the store represents an additional channel for accessing local products. PRoduce currently works with 65 restaurants.
Díaz noted that the store's market will feature what is in season, which supports farmers while educating consumers about what Puerto Rico produces and when.
What products will you be able to find?
The store will have a fresh produce market that includes fruits, vegetables, meats, local fish, dairy, prepared products, marinades, dips, sauces, spices and breads. It will also have a deli for breakfast and lunch, a coffee bar and juices.
The opening does not mean abandoning the digital model. As Crystal Díaz explained, the company redesigned its website and app to make the experience more accessible, and will continue delivery routes across the Island, including Vieques.
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
