Boston city councilors are exploring the idea of government-owned grocery stores to improve access to affordable fresh food, inspired by Atlanta's recent success. A hearing earlier this month led to plans for studying municipal market models from other cities. While proponents see potential in tackling food deserts, skeptics warn of inefficiencies and high costs.
Boston officials are weighing the establishment of city-run grocery stores as a means to enhance food accessibility in underserved areas. Following a hearing earlier this month, councilors agreed to examine how other municipalities have implemented such markets to bridge gaps in food access. Councilors Ruthzee Louijeune and Liz Breadon, who initiated the hearing, did not respond to requests for comment.
The concept draws inspiration from Atlanta, where the city opened Azalea Fresh Market on August 28. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens reported that the store has served more than 20,000 customers since opening. "In its first month, fresh produce made up 11.6% of total sales, exceeding the national average of 10% and highlighting a community demand for healthier food options," Dickens said. He emphasized the neighborhood's long-standing lack of grocers and added, "Azalea Fresh Market is proof that when we work together as a city, we can deliver real solutions that change lives."
Similar proposals are emerging elsewhere, including in New York City, where mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani advocates for city-owned stores as part of his affordability platform.
However, critics question the viability of government-operated groceries. Ryan Bourne, an economist at the Cato Institute, described Boston's consideration as "a bad idea," arguing that private stores benefit from specialized knowledge and profit incentives. "Government doesn’t become Costco by proclamation," he said, warning of potential subsidies leading to inefficiencies like queues and shortages.
Judge Glock of the Manhattan Institute cited a failed government-backed store in Kansas City that closed despite a nearly $20 million investment, noting that supermarkets already operate on slim margins. John Peluso from the Heritage Foundation called the model "ineffective at reducing the overall price of groceries," suggesting instead that easing taxes and regulations could attract private grocers. He also favored community organizations over government intervention for aiding low-income families.