Montpellier’s renowned cooperative supermarket, La Cagette, is preparing to write a new chapter in its history. After winning the hearts of Montpellier residents with its exemplary model of self-management and sustainable consumption, La Cagette plans to move its operations to 17 Cours Gambetta in 2027, for its 10th anniversary. Thanks to the support of the City of Montpellier and in collaboration with Altémed, this strategic move will allow La Cagette to double its footprint, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and accessible food.
A symbolic move for a new era of growth
La Cagette, located at 19 Avenue Clemenceau, is currently experiencing space limitations due to its growing number of employees and active cooperative members. With 5,548 employees, including 2,500 active cooperative members and eight salaried employees, the brand is in dire need of new premises. The transition to Cours Gambetta was officially approved at a general meeting on July 6, demonstrating overwhelming community support. The Journey of an Innovative CooperativeSophie Sachet, President of La Cagette, recalls the humble beginnings of this visionary initiative. In July 2015, a small group of citizens dissatisfied with the supermarket offerings decided to form a cooperative association. Their determination led them, in May 2017, to establish a consumer cooperative SAS, revitalizing the premises of a liquidated Spar. La Cagette represents an independent, non-profit project focused on sustainable food. Entirely owned by its customers, it has taken root in the hearts of Montpellier residents by promoting cooperative and social values. Municipal Support and Future Prospects La Cagette’s progress was welcomed by the Mayor of Montpellier, Michaël Delafosse. During a symbolic meeting on July 8, he emphasized the importance of redeveloping the Clemenceau/Gametta axis and the positive impact of the cooperative model on food distribution. The mayor expressed the wish to see “crates in all neighborhoods of Montpellier” in recognition of the potential benefits of this model on an urban scale.The relocation to 17 Cours Gambetta will provide an expansion to 10,000 m² and a potential increase in the number of employees, highlighting the crucial role local authorities play in supporting initiatives promoting local agriculture. A shared vision for Montpellier’s food future In a climate where responsible food and civic engagement are highly valued, La Cagette stands out as a striking example of this balance. While emphasizing that “cities have a major role to play in protecting our farmers,” Michaël Delafosse sees this project as an alternative to profit-driven systems.
As La Cagette prepares to double its size and spread its positive influence, Montpellier aims to be fertile ground for this redefinition of local commerce, focused on the future and sustainability.