After three years and over $7-million dollars the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation was able to open the K’ai Tailé Market, the community’s second grocery store.
A lot of planning and logistics went into the creation of the store, especially when it came to getting the shelves stocked. In the summer months, supplies were brought in via barging on boats, fresh produce was flown in and non-perishable items were brought up during the winter when the winter road was open.
Chief Allan Adam told MyMcMurray the store brings food security to the community by offering lower prices and is helping the economy by providing jobs to 15 people.
Michelle Voyageur, Band Councillor with the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation explained to MyMcMurray how they are able to offer the discounts.
“We’re selling our milk for $6.89 and at the Northern it sells for $14,” said Voyageur. “Our board of directors is providing a mandate to employ people and to ensure people have access to healthy foods so were not pushing for huge profit.”
She adds that they are an interdependent store with a partnership with Loblaws and can provide Presidents Choice products and also cater to the locals wants.
“Our community members really like organ meats so we were able to sell hearts and livers and items they really like,” said Voyageur.
Fort Chipewyan residents now have another option to shop locally everyday from 10 a.m. till 6 p.m.
