A Local Foods Production and Distribution Center for Mecklenburg
Carolina Farm Trust (CFT) is asking for a $3 million commitment from Mecklenburg County for the Local Foods Production & Distribution Center. Carolina Farm Trust is a nonprofit organization established in 2015 and headquartered in Charlotte.
The LFDPC
The Local Foods Distribution & Production Center (LFDPC) will serve both residential and commercial customers by buying and selling real food, for real people. Foundational to the project are principles of equity, with a focus on access and affordability, in order to connect equity-seeking communities with food that is flavorful, vibrant, and packed with nutrition. The undertaking of this project is critical to achieving food justice in Charlotte.
Goals and Benefits
A reliable, year-round source of fresh, affordable, nutrient-dense foods, including value-added products, for constituents
A reliable, year-round marketplace for farmers and agripreneurs to sell their products, including value-added products
Educational opportunities
Employment pathways Entrepreneurial development
$14million 3-year Budget
CFT will create a consumer generated revenue model to be financially sustainable long term.
Wholesale
➢ Commercial Clients (eg: Compass Group)
➢ Potential partnerships with County Corner Store Initiative
➢ Restaurants
Retail
➢ Onsite Retail Space with Teaching/Presentation Kitchen
➢ A mobile app to optimize delivery options
Value Added Products
➢ Creating of a CFT line of products such as: sauces, dressings, pre-made meals, etc.
Location
CFT has an opportunity to lease 83,900 square feet of indoor/outdoor space,19,200sqft and 4,700sqft of cold storage, at a former food production and distribution facility in Charlotte's West Side.
