Prestwich’s eco-friendly store needs your help to survive

Ten years ago, a group of locals in Prestwich dared to dream of something different. They imagined a grocery store that didn’t just sell food, but one that championed local producers and inspired a more sustainable way of living. That dream became Village Greens, a small but mighty community-owned co-operative set in Prestwich’s Longfield Centre.

Now, as the centre prepares for a £100 million regeneration that will transform the area, Village Greens finds itself at a crossroads. The store that has quietly become a lifeline for many, a place to shop consciously and connect with neighbours, must move. But with change comes opportunity.

Village Greens, Prestwich

In response, the team behind Village Greens has launched an ambitious fundraising campaign, aiming to raise £25,000 to support the move to a new, larger home just around the corner: the former Prestwich Social building on Fairfax Road. The new premises will provide space for local groups to meet for free, a cosy café for people to gather and chat, a larger zero-waste refill wall, and room to grow their support for local suppliers.

They are making great progress with the fundraiser, but need your help to try and get it over the line.

“This move is about creating a sustainable future for Village Greens and strengthening our connection with the community,” said Chris Williams, Store Manager.

“We’re inviting our loyal customers and neighbours to support us by contributing to the Crowdfunding campaign and receive brilliant rewards in return. When we first launched 10 years ago, the local community was amazing, signing up 400 founder members and raising £100,000 to get the shop up and running. Now we need their help again as we take this essential step to secure our future in the heart of Prestwich.”

Zero-waste, ethical shopping in Prestwich

From the beginning, Village Greens has done things differently. Every product on the shelves is chosen with care, including organic fresh produce, whole foods, zero-waste refills, and ethically sourced local goods. But more than that, Village Greens has always been a place rooted in values: fairness, sustainability, health, and human connection.

Walk into the shop on any given day and you’ll see volunteers lending a hand, neighbours stopping for a chat, and families teaching their children about food that’s kind to the planet. For many, Village Greens is far more than a grocery store. It’s a community.

The new premises will make it possible to do even more. A dedicated community space and on-site café will enable Village Greens to host events, local maker markets, and family-friendly activities.

A central part of the Prestwich community

The upcoming relocation offers a rare chance to expand on that ethos. With a bigger space, the team envisions more workshops, community cooking demos, and opportunities for local makers and growers. The fundraising campaign will help cover the cost of fitting out the new site, legal fees, and creating a welcoming space that belongs to everyone.

But the costs of renovating and fitting out the new space, from structural work to buying equipment, are steep. That’s where the crowdfunding campaign comes in. And this isn’t just about giving: it’s about getting something back, too.

The campaign is packed with creative, thoughtful rewards for every budget, from Village Greens’ own “Goodness Bundles” of organic and zero-waste treats, to coffee subscriptions, yoga classes, and exclusive events. Prestwich businesses have donated generously too, offering rewards that show just how loved this little shop really is.

The shop already plays a vital role in the community. It runs the Community Fridge, hosts a pre-loved school uniform rail, supports local food banks, and gives pop-up space to independent traders. But in the new location, the team will have more space to do even more.

Want to get involved but can’t donate online? You can:

• Become a member: just £100 makes you a co-owner
• Volunteer your time: help clean, paint or fit out the new space
• Donate at the till
• Share the campaign and spread the word

With Prestwich undergoing a huge transformation, Village Greens hopes to remain a trusted, ethical presence grounded in community.

If successful, the move will not only secure their future but amplify their mission: to help Prestwich and North Manchester lead healthier, happier, more sustainable lives

How to support the Village Greens campaign

Donate to our crowdfunding here or to become a member or donate, visit their website here or follow them on social media for updates.