How Verdant Came to Be
It started around a kitchen table in 2009. Twelve families in West Asheville were tired of choosing between food they could afford and food they could feel good about. So they did what neighbors do: they pooled their resources, called up local farmers directly, and organized their first bulk order. Those early deliveries happened in a church basement. Word spread fast.
Within four years, the buying group had grown into a full storefront on Haywood Road. By 2019, we launched our zero-waste initiative — bulk bins, compostable packaging, and a farm composting loop that sends food scraps back to the same fields they came from. In 2024, we opened our expanded 8,500 sq ft market, complete with a teaching kitchen, bakery, and community garden. We've stayed true to the original idea the whole way: good food, fair prices, and a community that takes care of each other.
Our Journey
2009 — Founded
Twelve families form a cooperative buying group, pooling resources to purchase direct from Blue Ridge farmers. First deliveries in a West Asheville church basement.
2013 — First Storefront
Opening of our 2,400 sq ft location on Haywood Road with produce, dairy, and a small deli counter. Membership grows to 200 households in year one.
2019 — Zero Waste Launch
Launch of bulk bins, compostable packaging, and a farm composting partnership. Named Best Sustainable Business by Mountain Xpress readers.
2024 — Expansion
Grand opening of our 8,500 sq ft market with full bakery, prepared foods kitchen, community event space, and teaching garden. Now serving 3,000+ families weekly.
The People Behind Verdant
A small, dedicated team with deep roots in the Asheville food community.
Come See What We've Built
Open daily 8am–8pm in West Asheville. Become a member and start saving 10% on every purchase.