FAQ

Who is Save the Shaw Store?

At this quick moment, the non-profit Save the Shaw Store committee consists of

If you are interested in being on the Board or volunteering in other ways, please let any of us know.

We need to work quickly at the same time we are mindful of how necessary it is that all this process is transparent—so please do not hesitate to contact any of us with questions.

How will upcoming information be disseminated?

If you wish to receive regular updates on this process, please join our email list by writing to savetheshawstore@gmail.com.

Future communications will be mostly through the email list, for both speed and economy.

How will the Shaw Store change if the Orcas Food Co-op manages it?

If you’ve been in the Co-op on Orcas, you know that it has the same comfortable small ambiance as the Shaw Store and very similar products. In the Shaw Store, the Orcas Food Co-op would continue stocking Shaw-made items and Shaw Island produce (the Co-op already has a relationship with Shaw Island farms) — and would maintain a mix of food and general-store-type items to meet Shaw Island community needs.

As a mature and already profitable business, the Co-op would provide stability, expertise, and a depth of resources, as well as many advantages that come with being connected to a national network of food co-ops (for example, lower prices from increased buying power and access to other programs, services, and support). As a community-owned business, the Co-op’s approach is to put community needs first.

Shaw Islanders who choose to become member-owners of the Co-op will receive the same member benefits as all Co-op members at both stores — but there would be no requirement to be a member to shop in the Shaw Store. (Click to learn more about Orcas Food Co-op member benefits.)

What happens if the community non-profit Save the Shaw Store cannot purchase the property at Shaw Landing?

According to the recently signed agreement among the non-profit, the Orcas Food Co-op, and the owners of the property, if the non-profit cannot pull together the funding for buying the property by April 30th, the owners are free to sell the property to anyone else.

The Masons have had other interest in the property: A developer who would put in condos and privatize the marina, and a boat charter and adventure company that would use the marina as its base.

In addition, the Mason’s lease with the Shaw Post Office runs out in several years; new owners would be under no obligation to renew the post office lease — and the post office would have to be moved to another site or the USPS could discontinue a post office on Shaw.