carlostore

CaroloStore is a cooperative supermarket in Charleroi that puts local producers and artisans at the center of its model. It operates as a “super market of super local producers,” offering food and non-food products sourced mainly from the Charleroi-Métropole area and sold at a fair price for both producers and customers. The company positions itself as an alternative to conventional retail and industrial food distribution. It emphasizes short supply chains, transparency, democratic governance, and a direct role for producers in decisions such as pricing and product selection. The store also presents itself as an inclusive project with a social purpose, aiming to create jobs and make healthy, local products accessible to a broad public. Key Offerings Fresh local food : A broad range of ultra-fresh, mainly local food products from around 100 producers and artisans, including fruit and vegetables, bakery items, meat and charcuterie, dairy, and grocery staples. Bulk and grocery items : An épicerie and bulk section that supports everyday shopping with local and ethical products, including pantry goods and specialty items. Non-food and eco-responsible products : Sustainable non-food products such as hygiene, cleaning, cosmetics, and other eco-responsible household items. Artisanal and specialty products : Local artisanal products and selected ethical products from outside the region, including items that reflect the store’s values and diversify the offer. Core Values Local sourcing : The store prioritizes products from Charleroi-Métropole and nearby producers, with a strong preference for short supply chains and regional sourcing. Fair pricing : CaroloStore aims to offer a fair price to consumers while ensuring producers can cover costs and earn a decent income. Transparency and proximity : The company highlights direct relationships, clear product origins, and a store experience built around advice, discussion, and trust. Sustainability : Its offer includes organic or participatory-guarantee products, durable non-food goods, and a broader commitment to environmentally responsible practices. Social inclusion : The cooperative says it wants to create inclusive employment opportunities, including for people in socio-professional insertion or with disabilities. Unique Aspects Producer-led cooperative model : Producers and artisans are not just suppliers; they are members of the cooperative and take part in governance, including decisions on prices and product choices. Charleroi-focused network : The store works with about 100 local producers and artisans and presents itself as a showcase for the food economy of Charleroi and its wider metropolitan area. Fair-price positioning : CaroloStore explicitly frames itself as a viable economic alternative that seeks to reduce intermediaries and keep prices accessible without sacrificing producer remuneration. Citizen co-ownership : The project invites consumers to buy cooperative shares, with voting rights in general assemblies and a stated goal of building the store collectively. Social and inclusive ambition : Beyond retail, the project aims to generate local employment and support a more inclusive food system, including through solidarity-oriented initiatives.