Rutland
posted
Dec 19, 2012
Bananas is a neighborhood market serving northeastern Rutland
and the Route 4 corridor. It first openned at the end of October
and carries a selection of foods typically found in a small grocery
store.
Located in the building that was formerly Green Mountain Boys
Beer & Wine on Route 4. The property has served various
businesses since its initial construction as a Taco Bell, and owner
Mike Muller contends "There are a variety of perceptions about the
store, including the idea it's a produce stand or fruit market, or
a specialty store, or a tourist-oriented/gift shop, or a health
food store," he says. "We are a neighborhood grocery market, and
although we do have some selections that could be considered
natural foods, and some Vermont products, and some produce, we are
not exclusively any of those things." Muller adds that in this
early stage, they are using customer suggestions to shape the story
inventory more specifically, "so let us know what you want!"
Currently Bananas Market inventory includes a variety of
offerings, for example, for mac & cheese options, Banana's
offers Kraft and Stouffer's (national brands), as well as Annie's
(natural brand), and Mrs. Leeper's (gluten-free option).
After nearly two months in business, Muller has new plans he
hopes to develop, which include: prepared foods (he is working on
equipping and licensing the building, which has had the kitchen
equipment removed since being a restaurant), expanding the
selection of produce, expanding the selection of Beer & Wine.
("We have a way to go before we carry quite the selection that
Green Mountain Boys offered, but we're working on it!" he says.)
Additionally, Muller plans to include the sale of lottery and
cigarettes.
"We have made many updates, opened up the inside space, and we
welcome our neighbors to drop by and see," said Muller, adding,
"The purpose is to provide a market for residents, commuters and
other local customers… Like so many area businesses, we welcome the
additional traffic of ski season, but local business is our
priority."
Prior to openning Bananas Market, Mike Muller was GM at the
Rutland Co-op, a position he held for nearly four years. This past
spring, he handed over that role to a new manager, but remains a
member of the Co-op, and enjoys the opportunity to refer customers
to the Co-op for things that aren't available at Bananas.
For more information visit www.bananasmarket.com or the store
located at 206 US Route 4 East, Rutland, Vt.
