Root Cellar Market

Root Cellar Market: A Sustainable Marketplace for Pringle Creek

Overview:
Root Cellar Market aims to transform a historic 1930s building in Pringle Creek (a sustainable living community in Salem, OR) into a vibrant, sustainable marketplace. Our mission is to create a community hub that offers locally-sourced, eco-friendly products while preserving the unique charm and history of the building.

Business Model:
Root Cellar Market will generate revenue through the sale of a wide range of sustainably produced goods, including:
- Bulk dry goods, fresh dairy, eggs, and frozen staples.
- Pre-made organic gluten-free meals from local caterer.
- Self-care products, organic snacks, wines, ciders, and beers.
- Baking items, candles, gifts, cards, stickers, and pet products.
- Children's toys/books, coffee beans, kombucha, and waste-free products.

Our product curation focuses on sustainability and local availability, with an emphasis on organic items. The market will serve the Pringle Creek community, a 1-mile radius, and the greater Salem area, targeting middle to upper-class families who prioritize sustainability.

Customers:
Root Cellar Market will cater to:
- Pringle Creek residents (approximately 200 households).
- Nearby households within a 1-mile radius (approximately 4,800 households).
- Greater Salem area (approximately 66,000 households).

Our target market consists of middle to upper-class families who value sustainable living and local products. There are very few competitors in the vicinity and no similar marketplaces, offering a unique opportunity for us to fill this niche.

Team:
- Chelsey Bollinger: Managing operations, planning, purchasing, and initial running of the business. Chelsey brings passion and experience in sustainable living and community engagement.
- Curtis Bollinger and Paul Baskett: Financial contributors and advisors, providing essential support and investment to ensure the success of the market.

Credentials and Vision:
Chelsey and Curtis Bollinger have firsthand experience with the need for convenient, healthy meal options in their community, especially after the birth of their daughter. Chelsey, a registered dietitian, is passionate about local, fresh foods. This professional and personal connection drives their commitment to making Root Cellar Market a reality. Our vision is to create a marketplace that not only provides quality products but also strengthens community bonds and promotes sustainable living.

Potential for Expansion:
In addition to establishing Root Cellar Market, we envision the potential (pending necessary approvals) to expand the top floor of the building into an upscale boutique hotel. This space would feature two eco-friendly suites designed with 1930s-inspired decor, offering modern amenities and locally-made furnishings. 

The boutique hotel would provide a unique and immersive experience for guests, attracting visitors to the area and generating additional revenue. This expansion aligns with our mission to preserve the historical charm of the building while promoting sustainable living and local products.

Financial Request:
We are seeking $300,000 to partially fund the purchase and renovation of the historic building, transforming it into Root Cellar Market. This investment will cover:

 • Building Purchase: Securing ownership of the root cellar building.
 • Renovations: Preserving historical features such as wood ceilings and exposed brick, and making necessary updates for modern use.
 • Initial Inventory and Market Setup: Procuring sustainable, locally-sourced products and setting up market displays.
 • Marketing and Promotion: Attracting and retaining customers through strategic marketing initiatives, including social media, community events, and partnerships with local suppliers.

Conclusion:
Root Cellar Market is more than a store; it’s a community-centric initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Pringle Creek and the surrounding areas. Your investment will help us create a sustainable, vibrant marketplace that honors the past while paving the way for a greener future. Join us in this exciting journey to make Root Cellar Market a cornerstone of our community.