Developed by CITAG as part of its action-research activities, the mobile grocery store
addresses the multidimensional issue of access to fresh and healthy food in Marseille’s
underserved neighbourhoods. The latter is marked by alarmingly high rates of food poverty
and the progressive closure or deterioration of stores, amenities and public spaces. The
experimentation aims at achieving two main objectives:
● To make healthy, local, and quality products (vegetables, dry goods, and hygiene
products) accessible – economically, socio-culturally, practically and symbolically – in
Marseille’s low-income areas
● To create a lively and beautiful space, to provide a place for encounters and activities
within the neighbourhoods.
After consulting with institutional and social partners, CITAG launched the mobile grocery
store in 2023. Throughout the year, 12 mobile grocery stores were held in 4 neighbourhoods
of Marseille’s 15th arrondissement (district), reaching about a hundred people.
Although the experiment was generally well-received and met with enthusiasm from
residents, it was paused during the summer due to a tense situation in the neighbourhood
where it was being implemented. In 2024, the mobile grocery store is being gradually
redeployed, with a focus on redefining its modalities (frequency, duration, location,
governance), modify its design and refine its product and activity programs based on the
needs of the community and in close collaboration with local stakeholders.
This summer, the project team is intensifying efforts to re-engage residents and partner
organizations. In addition to participating in neighbourhood events to connect with inhabitants
and stakeholders, the team is organizing key activities at the Capri urban farm,
supported by the CITAG and situated near the neighbourhoods where the mobile grocery
store will operate. These gatherings feature workshops on sustainable food and concertation
sessions with residents regarding the mobile grocery store 2.0. The project team is noticing
a growing interest in the experiment, and residents eagerly anticipate its official
redeployment!
