Paterson Mom Opens 'A Better Market' Offering Fresh Produce at Lower Prices

Paterson, NJ, August 26, 2024 — Shana Manradge, a dedicated mother from Paterson, has introduced a fresh and affordable approach to grocery shopping with the launch of "A Better Market," a convenience store located at the corner of 12th Avenue and Rosa Parks Boulevard. The store, which officially opened its doors last Saturday, has quickly become a go-to destination for residents seeking healthy food options at significantly reduced prices.

Manradge, inspired by the skyrocketing grocery prices during the COVID-19 pandemic, began her journey into the world of fresh produce by researching food prices and connecting directly with farmers. Her inspiration came one day while grocery shopping when she saw a box of Cheerios priced at $9.54. Shocked by the high cost, she decided to take matters into her own hands.

“I’m going straight to the resource and bringing it to the community,” said Manradge, emphasizing her mission to provide fresh and healthy food directly from farms to her neighbors at unbeatable prices.

During the pandemic, while her children attended school virtually, Manradge devoted her time to learning about food sourcing. She established strong relationships with local farmers and small business owners, initially selling produce directly from her garage. The success of this endeavor, with discounts ranging between 50% to 60% compared to conventional grocery stores, highlighted the demand for affordable healthy food.

When the city required her to move to a brick-and-mortar location, "A Better Market" was born. The store operates with a unique pricing structure, selling food by the piece rather than by weight. This approach simplifies the shopping experience, allowing customers to know exactly how much they will pay at the register, eliminating the surprises that often come with conventional grocery store shopping.

The store’s grand opening was a major success, with shelves nearly emptied by the end of the day. Customers like Lauren Nance, who spent $36 on three full bags of produce and snacks—an amount that would have cost significantly more at a traditional grocery store—are already singing praises for the new store. “Even though I might need to drive from the other side of town to come here, it’s worth it,” Nance shared, highlighting the value and necessity of such a market in Paterson.

Looking to the future, Manradge plans to expand her efforts by introducing mobile produce stands that will bring fresh food directly to different parts of the city. She is also working to get approval for accepting SNAP/EBT benefits, which will further her goal of making healthy food accessible to all.

"A Better Market" represents more than just a convenience store; it’s a community initiative aimed at improving the health and well-being of Paterson residents. As the store continues to grow, it could serve as a model for other communities struggling with food deserts, proving that affordable, fresh food should be a right, not a luxury.

This new venture has not only provided a solution to the problem of high grocery costs but has also empowered the Paterson community by giving them access to the fresh, healthy produce they deserve. Manradge's efforts embody the spirit of resilience and community care, offering a beacon of hope for neighborhoods across the country facing similar challenges.