In October 2023, Cambutal welcomed a new establishment to its community: Local Mercado. Strategically located at the crossroads between the beach area and the town, this store aims to bring convenience closer to both residents and visitors.
Specifications and Offerings
Spanning an area of 220 m2, Local Mercado isn’t just about size—it’s about the variety. The store stocks fresh produce, a range of snacks, surf accessories, an array of wines and craft beers, diverse beverages, and household products. Despite the space limitations, the store boasts a diverse product range with more than 1,200 items on its shelves.
A Unique Shopping Experience
Local Mercado prioritizes its customers’ shopping experience. It stands as the first convenience store in Cambutal to offer air conditioning—a respite from the tropical heat. The ambiance is further elevated with carefully curated music and tasteful decorations. Unlike other stores in the area that might lean heavily into commercial branding and visual clutter, Local Mercado adopts a cleaner, more organized approach.
Outside, a terrace invites patrons to relax, socialize, and perhaps enjoy a snack or drink. It’s becoming a popular spot for locals and visitors to mingle, turning grocery runs into a more sociable activity.
Focusing on Fresh and Local
One of Local Mercado’s standout features is its commitment to stocking fresh fruits and vegetables—a need previously unmet in Cambutal. Residents no longer have to embark on day-long trips to Las Tablas or Chitre for fresh ingredients. Now, everything needed for a meal can be found within the store’s aisles on the same day.
Additionally, while affordability is a key focus, so is supporting local businesses. Local Mercado consciously chose not to collaborate with larger providers like Melo and Toledano. Instead, they’ve opened their doors to local egg producers, dairy farmers, and fishermen. This not only ensures fresher products but also boosts the local economy by giving these smaller producers a platform.
Sustainability Matters
Local Mercado is committed to sustainability. You’ll notice a conscious effort to reduce plastic waste, with reusable bags and a focus on minimizing packaging. It’s a small but important step towards a greener future.
Pricing and Community Focus
Affordability remains at the heart of Local Mercado’s ethos. While other grocery stores like Super Venao, operates on a higher pricing scale, Local Mercado seeks to offer more competitive prices, catering to a diverse clientele.
Behind this venture are local investors who identified a need within the Cambutal community. The creation of Local Mercado came after extensive dialogue with locals to understand their needs better. The result? A grocery store that doesn’t just sell products, but also elevates the shopping experience for everyone in Cambutal.
Opening Hours and Contact
Local Mercado is open from Monday to Sunday, from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM. For any inquiries or if you need assistance, you can reach them at +507 6184-1285 via WhatsApp or email at info@localmercado.com.
Revitalizing the Local Economy
Local Mercado’s existence brings with it multifaceted economic benefits:
Support for Local Producers: This means not only means fresher produce for customers but also assures consistent demand and income for these local businesses.
Job Creation: New businesses invariably mean new jobs. From store managers to cashiers, and from suppliers to maintenance staff, Local Mercado has injected employment opportunities into the community.
Boost to Property Value: With enhanced infrastructure like Local Mercado, Cambutal becomes even more attractive to potential property investors. A thriving grocery store can significantly boost the desirability of nearby properties.
Attracting Expats & Investors: Modern amenities like this well-stocked, air-conditioned grocery store make Cambutal a more appealing choice for expatriates and potential investors. These groups, in turn, bring with them further investment opportunities and potential job creation, amplifying the region’s growth.
Conclusion
In a short span of time, Local Mercado has become more than just a grocery store for Cambutal—it’s a symbol of progress, community, and sustainability. It showcases the power of combining modern conveniences with local aesthetics. The benefits extend beyond the aisles of the store, reverberating through the local economy, property values, and the very social fabric of Cambutal. For residents, expats, and investors alike, Local Mercado stands as a testament to Cambutal’s potential and its promising future. As the community continues to grow and evolve, establishments like Local Mercado will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory.