MILA hands-on market: organic food up to 40% cheaper in Vienna!

MILA hands-on market: organic food up to 40% cheaper in Vienna!

On October 10th, a new hands-on market with the promising name “MILA” will open in Vienna’s 12th district-Meidling. This cooperatively organized market at Vivenotgasse 29 has set itself the goal of defying the rise in food prices in times of inflation. The trend is alarming: many products are now twice as expensive as they were four years ago. While large supermarket chains such as BILLA and Spar are making record profits, the initiators of MILA want to ensure fair, transparent and affordable pricing for their members. Today reports that organic products at MILA are up to 40% cheaper than in conventional supermarkets.

The branch area of ​​the new market covers 350 square meters, where members can become active themselves. Each member works three hours a month in the store, thereby reducing operating costs. Membership costs a one-time fee of 180 euros, but reduced contributions from 20 euros are also possible, especially for socially weaker income groups. This cooperative model gives every member the same right to vote in decisions, no matter how high the contribution is. There are already almost 1,000 members and they are actively involved in shaping the product range. The range consists of around 90% organic products and members are allowed to submit suggestions for new products, which should make the selection sustainable and regional. Kontrast reports of a growing community that is not only committed to consumption, but also to social exchange.

Community and sustainability in focus

The initiators of MILA see themselves not just as another competitor in the supermarket jungle, but as part of a movement that has inspired similar projects in other cities. Cohesion and sustainability are our top priority. Avoiding food waste also plays a central role. Products that are close to expiring their best before date receive yellow dots, while expired but still edible products are given red dots and are therefore offered 30% cheaper. These measures are intended to raise awareness of conscious purchasing and reduce food waste.

Membership in MILA not only grants shopping opportunities, but also the right to have a say. “Silent hours” and multilingual information materials promote inclusion and a shared experience. In view of the often sharply increased prices in conventional markets, the MICLA market is a ray of hope for many Viennese households who are looking for quality and fairness. In order to cover the operating costs and realize further market opening, financing through loans and contributions from the members is planned. The market will soon be expanded to the full area of ​​350 square meters in order to create even more space for a sustainable shopping alternative.

The inspiration for MILA comes from the Park Slope Food Coop in New York, a successful model with over 17,000 members. This concept promises a joint effort for good and fair purchasing - a commitment that the people of Vienna can also accept. MILA could well be the key to solidarity in consumption. Especially in the current economic situation, such a concept is more valuable than ever and the right step in a fairer direction.