DOT’S MARKET COMING TO THE MEETINGHOUSE THIS FALL!
MVP is excited to share the news that local business partners, Elaina Bergamini and Jodi Bates Ibey, will operate the inaugural marketplace at the Grafton Center Meetinghouse.
Bergamini and Ibey are the creative forces behind Dot’s Market, which is scheduled to open this fall. You can read more about the business here.
Dot’s will feature a deli with homemade sandwiches, coffee, prepared foods, local goods, and general provisions.
In the coming months, MVP will work with Dot’s to finalize the interior finishes and prepare the space for opening day.
FAQs
Why a nonprofit-owned general store?
Simply put, it’s a model that seems to work in towns that cannot easily support a general store under the traditional model of private ownership. This is an idea that’s been growing in popularity in NH and VT for over 25 years. Nonprofit ownership removes some of the capital expenses from a store operator and allows them to invest more in the business and employees. It also allows for a smoother transition between store tenants.
General stores are important “third places” in rural towns; it’s where we post information, buy groceries and lunch, convene with neighbors, and find local employment. Grafton has been missing this sense of community since 2018 when the Grafton Country Store closed for good.
When will the building be ready for the store tenant?
MVP is working hard to get all the finishing touches ready inside for an opening around September 2026.
Who selected the store tenant?
MVP created a store committee comprised of community members who have experience with real estate, store operations, food, outdoor recreation, and local buying habits to evaluate the proposals. The committee interviewed candidates who responded to the RFP, then make their recommendation to the MVP board.
Are there examples of other non-profit owned stores in NH?
Yes! (And several in VT, too.) There are a handful in towns with demographics similar to Grafton. The MVP board visited several of them, and we encourage you to pay them a visit, too:
Robies, Hooksett (in between store operators)