Nothing is more New York than walking the same street everyday, only to happen on a new experience. Right now, nothing is more millennial than the Pop Up Grocer on Bowery in Nolita. On my commute home this past weekend I haplessly entered the space enticed by the bright aesthetics and straightforward branding.
The traveling pop-up is a nod to classic NYC bodega mixed with innovative natural food brands. Walking through the small space, the kitschy (i.e. “crunch” , “balls, bars + bits”) organization of products was effective showcasing the grocery’s personality. It is playful in design, with lots of primary colors, but serious about giving each customer a wide range of wholesome foods.
Pop Up Grocer covered the basics with the contemporary customer checklist including: cbd products, floral displays, natural beauty, instagrammable appeal, trendy zines and a social justice mission. 5% of all profits are donated to support Planned Parenthood of New York City. The prices range depending on the brand, but there is definitely something for everyone; whether that be a fresh floral bouquet or cashew queso.
While purchasing my sesame sourdough loaf freshly baked from Gertie, my cashier perfectly summed up my experience. “I am most attracted to this space because, I’ve never seen so many brands created by peers from my generation all in the same place. To support them creates an economy of camaraderie.”
Check out Pop up Grocer on Bowery between Spring and Prince Street t before it ends October 20th, and to see where they will pop-up next follow them on on social media.