The Big Move - Your Questions Answered

Exciting times! If you haven’t heard already we are fundraising for our big move so thought a blog might address some of questions you inevitably have.

Where are you moving to?

We are moving next to Costa in the old “Prestwich Social” , a much bigger space but still in the heart of Prestwich.

Why are you moving?

We are moving because the Longfield Centre is being redeveloped and we would have had to move anyway. Instead of moving into a temporary location we proposed to our members that it was the right time to try and find a larger premises and expand the business. They voted in favour of the move.

You have members? How does that work?

Yes we are a co-operative which means we are owned by our members who each have a share in the business. Over 10 years ago over 400 local people helped start Village Greens as an alternative to large supermarkets.

How does membership work?

Members invest a minimum of £100 and then have a share in Village Greens. They can vote on important decisions and have a say in the way the business is run. They also benefit from having a membership card which gives discounts on certain products.

What does being a member involve?  

As a member you are a co-owner and play an important part in the future of Village Greens.  We value our members' input in all aspects of the business from feedback about how we are doing to practical help and involvement in events.  You can be as involved as you like!  

How much have you raised so far and how much do you need to raise?

We have raised an incredible £27K so far but we need to raise £50K to fully fund the move.

What are the funds needed for?

The funds are required for fitting out the new premises, legal fees, marketing services, increased security costs (CCTV), deep cleaning the new space and much more.

Why should members pay for this, surely the council should help as they are redeveloping your current premises?

Unfortunately we haven’t had any help or financial contribution from Bury Council and as such need to raise the funds ourselves.

Can you not get a grant?

As a business it’s very hard to access funding. We are testing several options but if you have any ideas or experience please do get in touch.

How can I help?

You can help in loads of ways!

From £100: Become a member. More info here.

From £1: Increase your existing shareholding if you are already a member.

From £1: Donate some money. More info here.

As much as you can afford: Continue shopping with us! We really appreciate your business.

For free: Share our posts on social media, like, comment, engage. Write us a Google review. Talk to us about why you love being a member or love shopping with us. All of this helps.

As a time commitment: Let us know if you have a specialist skill or know someone who does. We are currently looking for help with:

·         Signage - replacing external signage with Village Greens brand

·         Checking the existing CCTV system and security alarm

·         Building a stud frame

·         Deep cleaning the kitchen

As a time commitment:

·         Clearing and fitting out the new shop - every Saturday between 10am and 3pm (you must be physically fit)

·         Hosting a stand at Prestwich Clough Day on Sunday 18th May - 11am - 5pm

·         Leaflet drops - distributing fundraising leaflets across Prestwich homes, events and businesses

For any of the above please contact volunteers@village-greens-coop.co.uk

What’s the plan for the new space?

Initially we hope to have a larger shop with more stock and more products. Eventually we hope to have a café and community space.

When will you move?

We have signed the lease and have the keys so we hope to move in the next few weeks.

If you have any more questions which haven’t been addressed here then please do let us know. We look forward to hearing from you and in the meantime thank you to all of you for reading, volunteering your time, becoming a member, donating, grafting in the new space and helping us realise our dream!

25 April 2025