PCC Community Markets has opened its 17th Seattle-area neighborhood store in Madison Valley today, nearly a decade after signing the lease for the site in 2016.
Located at 2925 E. Madison St., the new store is part of a mixed-use development that faced years of delays amid regulatory hurdles and opposition from neighbors and slow-growth advocates concerned about traffic and environmental impacts. The project also weathered the COVID-19 pandemic and rising food, fuel and operating costs.
The 73-year-old grocery co-op, founded in Seattle in 1953, has gotten involved with the Madison Valley community prior to the opening by supporting several local events, including Concerts in the Park and the McGilvra Elementary School auction. PCC also worked with residents and businesses to advocate for a pedestrian crosswalk signal on Madison Street.
The store will support six local organizations: Jewish Family Service of Seattle, Bailey-Boushay House, FEEST, Downtown Emergency Service Center, The Food Bank @ St. Mary’s and Black Farmers Collective.
PCC expects the location to employ about 75 people, including deli staff who will prepare many of the co-op’s signature items in-house.
Shoppers can find locally grown organic produce, ethically raised meat and seafood, and seasonal products sourced from across the Pacific Northwest. The store offers convenience in the form of sushi made fresh in-house and a deli with grab-and-go meals, salads, sandwiches, and soups. There will also be an “refreshed pizza program” serving hot slices and whole pies made with local, organic flour.
Other features include new store decor, a bulk foods section, and a free parking garage. PCC-branded products and Field Day items will provide additional grocery options at accessible prices.
PCC Community Markets began as a food-buying club and has since grown into the country’s largest food co-op, specializing in sustainably sourced groceries and specialty products.
The Madison Valley store is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
